The Italian National Health Fund (FSN) is projected to receive increased funding in the coming years, with allocations of €136.5 billion in 2025, €140.6 billion in 2026, and €141.1 billion in 2027.
Concerns have been raised about the implications of these figures, particularly regarding the ability of the National Health Service (NHS) to meet the growing demands of the population. Experts have highlighted that the resources earmarked for staff contract renewals will not be sufficient to implement the recruitment plans for doctors and nurses advocated by Minister Schillaci.
While there are positive aspects such as updating rates for acute and post-acute services, the overall allocation for healthcare is considered insufficient. Limited resources for essential health services (LEAs) could further delay access to outpatient specialist and prosthetic services, exacerbating existing challenges within the healthcare system.
The funding trajectory appears to revert to pre-pandemic levels by 2026, raising concerns about the sustainability of healthcare services in Italy. A critical issue is the ongoing shortage of healthcare staff, particularly nurses, which poses a significant challenge to the NHS.
The incremental resources allocated for the years 2028 to 2030 will largely be absorbed by contractual renewals, leaving little room for addressing the pressing need for additional personnel. The current climate within the NHS is characterized by demotivation and disaffection among healthcare professionals, particularly nurses.
The perception is that the Budget Law fails to meet the legitimate expectations of both health professionals and the public. These challenges have profound implications for patient care and overall public health, necessitating urgent attention from policymakers.