Italian doctor holding heart with flag of Italy background. Healthcare, charity, insurance and medicine concept (Iulia Nemchinova MF - stock.adobe.com)
The overall quality and performance of Italy’s universal health system ranks favorably compared to international standards. Health care access and quality as well as life expectancy rank among the highest globally. Though healthcare in Italy is not free, the fees are usually reasonable, and emergency medical assistance is provided to anyone in need without asking for up-front payment.
The health and dental care culture may be different than what you are accustomed to. Understanding these differences will help you feel less nervous about going to an Italian provider.
Undressing is normal. Doctors will not hesitate to ask you to undress in front of them as they continue talking to you or calling in a specialist to greet you as you are partly dressed.
Timing. If you can’t make it to your appointment, let your provider know. No-shows may be charged. If you find yourself waiting past your scheduled appointment time, be patient or notify the staff and reschedule your appointment.
Piove di Sacco, Veneto, Italy - Feb 28th, 2023: View of Immacolata Concezione Hospital entrance ()
In order to have affordable health care, hospitals may not issue basics supplies like towels, gowns, soap and other toiletries. Be prepared to bring your own.
Italian pain medication management is an area that differs from the American medical system. If you are in pain or are not responding well to the prescribed treatment plan, stronger prescriptions may be available. Inform your medical team of prescriptions you currently take, ask your doctor questions and seek help with your Near Patient Team if a language barrier exists.
You may find a difference in privacy as well. Hospital rooms are often double occupancy and may have no privacy screens between beds. Take appropriate clothing that allows you to remain semi-dressed during exams. Additionally, host-nation doctors may not always have a chaperone when examining a patient of the opposite sex. If you feel uncomfortable, ask for an additional person. Remember, you can say no.
If you want to leave your room, get dressed. And if you plan on leaving the ward, let the nursing staff know.
Be Prepared
In anticipation of a healthcare emergency, learn the location of local clinics and hospitals. Have a bag packed of key items you would need in an emergency including but not limited to:
Military ID card or passport
List of current medications to include name of drug and dosage
Bottled water
Notebook and pen
Towel/washcloths
Pajamas, slippers, robe
Personal hygiene items
Reading materials
Extra clothing
Electronic devices and earphones
Patient Liaisons are coordinated at some Italian installations to bridge the gap between care provided off-installation and at the MTF. They can provide the following services.
Ease language barriers between patient and Italian providers.
Accompany patients to their first visit to an Italian provider (per request).
Answer questions about treatment, medical forms and Italian medical practices, hospital environment or culture.
Upon request, talk to Italian providers about a patient’s medical condition and treatment plan to facilitate patient understanding.
Assess and interpret patient concerns to determine specific assistance needs.
Visit in the Italian hospital to assess treatment progress and plans.
Help coordinate a transfer between Italian medical facilities and/or the MTF.
Assist with the discharge of a patient from an Italian treatment center.
