Choosing a GP: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to select a primary care physician in Italy to access free medical services through the national health system.
This scheme allows residents to select a primary care physician, known locally as a Medico di base or Medico di famiglia, to manage their general healthcare needs.
Who it's for
The scheme is designed for all residents living in Italy. If you are a resident, you are eligible to select a doctor to oversee your personal health management and act as your first point of contact for medical concerns.
What you get
By participating in this system, you get access to a free primary care physician. This doctor, often referred to as a Medico di famiglia, serves as your main provider for routine medical assistance and helps coordinate your care within the broader national health system.
What it costs you
There is no cost to you for this service; it is provided for free. You can manage the entire process of choosing and updating your doctor through regional portals, allowing you to handle the administrative side online rather than visiting an office in person.
The catch to know
While the service is free, there is a practical limitation you must keep in mind: doctors have a maximum patient limit. Because each physician can only manage a set number of individuals, the most popular doctors fill up fast. If you have a specific doctor in mind, you may find they are unable to accept new patients due to these capacity restrictions.
How to apply
- Navigate to the specific regional health portal designated for your area of residence.
- Log in to the digital system using your official identity credentials.
- Use the search function to look through the list of available doctors in your area.
- Review the available physicians and select your preferred doctor.
- Confirm your choice through the portal to finalize your registration.