Italy having free healthcare for undocumented migrants: Geopolitical Report…

Italy is known for its cuisine and tourism. But it is also a leading country in providing healthcare services to undocumented migrants. If an asylum seeker comes and seeks refuge in Italy, he/ she holds subsidiary protection status and is entitled to the same health services as Italians.

They should register themselves with the Italian public healthcare system (SSN) together with family members. The registration is carried out by the local public healthcare office ((ASL or ASP) of the place where they are residing. 

After registering, migrants are entitled to have a family physician, specialised medical visits in case of need, blood tests and vaccinations, hospitalisation and other different kinds of health treatments depending on the needs and requirements.

When approaching an ASL / ASP, one can ask for more specific information on specialised health care including mental health support. If one lives in the reception facility they can ask the reception staff to approach the local health clinics.

If the migrant family does not have a fixed place to stay, they can contact NGOs who specialise in healthcare of migrants and refugees and they will help in times of medical need and family health checkups.

There are different websites and sections for medical assistance dedicated to migrants such as MEDU or Medical Doctors for Human Rights, Intersos that provides provision of social and health assistance to groups falling in marginally conditioned economic situation including unaccompanied and separated children (UASC), young adults previously entitled to humanitarian protection, survivors of human trafficking and gender based violence.

The medical teams also have a separate wing of Health Assistance that looks after persons with HIV. and MSF that provides psychological assistance to various people who require counselling help. 

There are dedicated health centres for people with mental health issues and persons with disabilities or specially abled people.