Italy - Health

The healthcare system in Italy is a regionally based national health service known as Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN). It provides universal coverage to citizens and residents, with public healthcare largely free of charge. Public healthcare facilities in Italy vary in terms of quality depending on the region. EU citizens cruising in Italy can take advantage of the reciprocal healthcare agreements with their home country (use of form E111). Private hospitals in Italy boast excellent facilities, although the quality of care is likely to be similar to that of public hospitals. Treatments at private hospitals in Italy can be prohibitively expensive without health insurance.

Most pharmacies in Italy are small, family-run establishments, with knowledgeable and efficient pharmacists who can recommend medication without a doctor’s prescription.

A useful website re. travel insurance for Italy is https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/europe-travel-insurance/italy/.

Vaccine Preventable Diseases:

• Be sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines.
• Other vaccines to consider include Tetanus and Tick-borne Encephalitis.
• No yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for this country.

Food and Water Concerns:

Seafood should not be consumed in areas of heavy pollution.

Last updated:  February 2024