Healthcare Basics

Learn the basics of Italy's healthcare system, including how to obtain Italian health insurance and who to call in an emergency.

Is healthcare free in Italy? Costs, coverage, and access

The healthcare system in Italy provides tax-funded healthcare through the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN), meaning many core services are free or low-cost for eligible residents. However, healthcare in Italy is not completely free for everyone and access depends on your status, registration, and the type of care you need. If you are moving to Italy and expect a gap […]

EHIC card Italy: how it works for expats

Understand the EHIC card italy rules, from public treatment and emergency care to the points where expats need a different plan. Your EHIC can help with medically necessary public healthcare during a temporary stay in Italy, but it is not the same as long-term cover, and it usually will not help with private treatment, planned care, or […]

Pharmacist giving a consultation to a patient

How to get a prescription in Italy as an expat

You can secure a prescription in Italy quite easily once you understand how local healthcare is structured. Your choice generally comes down to using the public health system, visiting a private doctor, or speaking directly with a pharmacist. While state coverage handles routine care, many expats rely on private providers like Cigna Healthcare to see […]

Healthcare in Italy for U.S. citizens

Understand healthcare in Italy for US citizens before you move, stay long term, or settle into daily life. Italy offers public and private care, but access depends on residency and legal status. This guide helps you compare private alternatives like Cigna healthcare and Allianz healthcare while you work out public Servizio Sanitario Nazionale, or SSN eligibility, […]

Woman standing at the info desk of a hospital. Everyone is wearing face masks.

The healthcare system in Italy

Italy has universal public healthcare, offering (almost) free treatments. Find out how it works, who can access it, and how to register.

Guide to getting health insurance in Italy in 2026

Health insurance in Italy is split between public and private coverage. Find out who needs what, how to register, coverage, and costs.

Emergency numbers in Italy

New to the country? Keep this essential list of emergency numbers in Italy on hand for when you need it most.

Vaccinations in Italy

From mandatory childhood vaccines to optional shots for older people, here’s what you need to know about vaccinations in Italy.

Senior man standing on a balcony, surrounded by plants.

Senior health and elderly care in Italy

Learn more about senior health insurance and elderly care in Italy, including options for specialists, treatments, and community-based aging.