Can tourists get healthcare in Italy?


Can tourists get healthcare in Italy? In Italy, foreign visitors, both from EU and non-EU countries, have the same rights as Italian citizens, which means that in the event of a medical emergency they are assisted and medicated for free in the emergency ward of public hospitals.


Does Italy provide healthcare to tourists?

Since 1978, healthcare in Italy has been provided through a mixed public-private structure. On the public side, the SSN, Servicio Sanitario Nazionale, provides free or very low-cost healthcare to all Italian citizens and non-citizens with residency status.


What happens if I get sick while traveling in Italy?

In Italy, foreign visitors, both from EU and non-EU countries, have the same rights as Italian citizens, which means that in the event of a medical emergency they are assisted and medicated for free in the emergency ward of public hospitals.


Can a tourist see a doctor in Italy?

Tourists can go directly to a GP's surgery. A list of GPs can be found through the local ASL. If necessary, the state GP will then refer the patient to a specialist. Regions and cities that regularly welcome a large number of tourists sometimes have separate medical practices for patients from abroad.