Italian Healthcare System Faces Challenges Despite Constitutional Guarantee

Rome, March 4, 2026 – A recent survey reveals that nearly half of Italian citizens (46%) believe the right to health, as enshrined in Article 32 of the Italian Constitution, is not fully respected in the country. Concerns center around long waiting lists, issues with emergency care and hospital services, though there has been slight improvement from the previous year. Despite these challenges, Italians maintain confidence in the value of innovation within the healthcare sector.

Constitutional Right and Current Perceptions

Article 32 of the 1946 Italian Constitution establishes health and healthcare as a fundamental right, guaranteeing citizens free access to medical care. Yet, the Euromedia Research survey, presented at the eighth edition of the ‘Investing for Life Health Summit,’ indicates a significant portion of the population feels this right is not consistently upheld.

Key Concerns and Areas for Improvement

The primary concern identified by respondents is lengthy waiting lists (58% vs. 62% in 2024). Organization of emergency departments and services (38%) and the quality of hospital care (25%) also contribute to dissatisfaction. There is a growing call for greater state involvement to ensure uniform standards and reduce regional disparities in healthcare access.

Confidence in Innovation and Pharmaceutical Sector

Despite concerns about access, Italians express strong confidence in healthcare innovation. Investments in Research & Development (R&D) are seen as crucial for extending life expectancy (40% of respondents), and the pharmaceutical industry’s efforts are considered very crucial by almost half of those surveyed (44%). A significant majority (80%) view the healthcare and pharmaceutical sector as a stimulant for the Italian economy.

Government and Industry Response

Minister of Health Orazio Schillaci emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing waiting lists through novel legislation, stating that rules and control tools are now in place, but regional implementation is essential.

Nicoletta Luppi, president and managing director of MSD Italia, highlighted the pharmaceutical industry’s role in driving innovation and economic growth. She stated that the sector is a leading force in Italian exports, with a 28.5% increase in value in 2025, reaching approximately €69.2 billion. Luppi called for the removal of obstacles to growth, including the pharmaceutical payback system, and a systemic reform to encourage industrial planning, and research.

Regional Disparities and Investment Needs

The survey data reveals positive assessments of healthcare in some northern regions (Lombardy, Veneto, and Emilia Romagna), reinforcing the perception of an unequal healthcare system linked to territorial performance. Respondents also widely believe that Italy invests less in healthcare than the EU average (38%).

Inefficient resource management (30%) and differing political priorities (17%) are identified as key factors slowing down investments in public health. Access to innovative therapies is perceived as unhurried (87%) and uneven, despite recognition of active research and the presence of centers of excellence.

The Future of Italian Healthcare

The survey indicates a growing desire for patient-centered healthcare, with almost half of respondents wanting patients actively involved in treatment decisions (49%). Digital transformation and artificial intelligence are viewed positively as tools to improve efficiency and diagnostic accuracy. Preventive care, particularly in oncology and cardiovascular diseases, is also a priority.

The Italian healthcare system, while constitutionally guaranteed, faces ongoing challenges related to access, equity, and investment. Continued focus on innovation, strategic resource allocation, and regional collaboration will be crucial to ensuring all citizens can fully exercise their right to health.