Information about the Italian healthcare system and insurance system.

Italy is a country with a universal health insurance system. This system aims to ensure that Italian citizens have access to universal healthcare. Everyone living in Italy has access to basic healthcare, and these services are often free or low-cost. The health insurance system in Italy is run by the National Health Service (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale - SSN). SSN is a network of public and private healthcare providers. Access to healthcare is free for Italian citizens. However, additional fees may apply for foreigners in some cases. The health insurance system is financed through the social security system between employees and employers. Employers are responsible for paying their employees' health insurance premiums. Employers' premium payments are deducted from employees' salaries and collected by the state. There are also state-supported health insurance opportunities for the unemployed, retirees, students and low-income people. The health insurance system promotes patients' access to primary healthcare services (family doctors, outpatient clinics). Primary care is used first, and in more complex or specialized cases, patients are referred to secondary or tertiary care. The health insurance system in Italy is quite comprehensive and covers many different healthcare services and treatments. These include outpatient services, hospital treatments, medications, laboratory tests, dental services and emergency medical interventions. However, some specific healthcare services and treatments may not be covered by health insurance and patients may be required to pay additional fees. Additionally, some healthcare services may have long wait times, and in some cases, service may be faster with private health insurance. Although the healthcare system in Italy is comprehensive, it has also been subject to some criticism. There are problems such as long waiting times, unequal health services in some regions, and budget constraints. However, Italian people generally report that they are satisfied with their health services.