The Global Leadership Certificate (GLC) program has positively impacted my study abroad experience the most. Without my work through the GLC, I would have never been exposed to new aspects of Italian culture and my work with MedinAction. MedinAction is an Italian medical service that connects tourists and patients in need with qualified English-speaking doctors, and I am assisting by writing blogs for the web page. Not only am I helping people by writing blogs for MedinAction, but I am learning through the experience too. I wish I had known the important key differences between the United States and the Italian Healthcare system. So here is everything you need to know regarding healthcare before studying abroad in Florence, Italy.  

Things to Know about Italy’s Healthcare System as a Tourist:

• Cost of Healthcare: Healthcare in Italy is funded by taxes all citizens pay. All citizens and tourists with insurance cards are provided medical services, for the most part, free of charge. Less out-of-pocket and medical debt in Italy compared to the United States.

• Cultural and Societal Factors: While facing the same issues each country has different approaches to healthcare. The United States is more focused on preventing the occurrence and prevalence of diseases. While Italy focuses more on comprehensive healthcare, mainly initiatives based on Italian community health and preventive care measures. 

• Healthcare Quality: The United States has the highest quality of healthcare in the world, but lacks accessibility for citizens. Where Italy has some of the best healthcare too, but has easier access and less medical financial burden for citizens. Open accessibility to the Italian

•  the healthcare system allows for the system to have better health outcomes for its entire population.

• Healthcare is considered a human right in Italy, instead of a privilege like in the United States.

Now you are ready to begin your new chapter and adventure in Florence, Italy. You are now educated on all the factors involving healthcare so that you can prioritize your health during your time here. Never hesitate to reach out to SAI for additional questions involving the healthcare system here in Italy, they are always happy to help! For  further information, read my blog post on the MedinActions website titled, “Unveiling the Truth: A New Residents Guide to Italian Healthcare.” Savor every moment of your time abroad as it flies by, reassured by the knowledge that your health is well taken care of.

Written by: Lily, Spring 2024 Florence student from Miami University