ITALY | Emegency | Cultural information
The National Health Service
The National Health Service is the institution that regulates all activities related to the human health and the prevention of disease. It is formed by public structures operating within the National Health Service. In Italy the Health Care System is organised at a regional level (There may be some differences from region to region) and it is often characterized by specialized clinics or departments (dermatology, ophthalmology, etc...).
The E111 form
The E111 form is an international document that allows European citizens to have the same health benefits as citizens of the host country. It is important to obtain this document before leaving.
People who have the E111 form
A visit to a specialist or blood test that is not urgent must be prescribed by a doctor who works within the National Health Service. Afterwards, the patient must make an appointment and pay the prescription charge (about 35 Euro).
People who don't have the E111 form
People who do not have the E111 form can go to the private clinics and pay for the visit or go to the public hospitals that have fees established by the Italian State. In this case, they will be able to ask for a reimbursement as soon as they return to their country.
Medical Emergency
In case of emergency it is possible to call the free number 118. If it is not necessary to go to the hospital, it is possible to call the emergency medical service (Guardia Medica). The helicopter ambulance service is available only if seriously injured or if the accident happens in a place that is difficult to reach. The 118 number is available 24 hours a day.
The emergency medical service
The emergency medical service is free and guarantees that a doctor will visit the patient at home when the doctors working within the National Health Service are not available. This doctor can only write prescriptions for emergency medicines and these prescriptions have a validity of no more than 3 days. The telephone numbers are available in the yellow pages. In case of an emergency during the night or on Sundays and holidays, the service is available from 2.00 p.m. to 8.00 a.m. of the following day and from 8.00 p.m. to 8.00 a.m. on weekdays and Saturdays.
The emergency medical service for tourists
The emergency medical service for tourists is a seasonal service available everyday in all popular tourists locations. It serves people who are not residents.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies are open on a rotating basis in order to guarantee service even during the night and on weekends and holidays. The list of the open pharmacies is available in the newspaper and outside the pharmacies.