Health & Protection in Italy

Any person who has travelled or lived in a different country can easily say that there is no planning or amount of preparation can keep them from experiencing mishaps. Italy is a relatively easy expatriate destination and here we cover what it takes to be well protected in your new country.

Getting Insurance

All legally operating insurance companies in Italy should have the accreditation of the Istituto per la Vigilanza sulle Assicurazioni (Institute for the Supervision of Insurance). So make sure that the company you are signing up with is on the list of IVASS. You can also contact them in case you have any issues or complaints regarding your insurance provider.

Before contacting any broker or agent, you should call first the human resource office of your company to ask about your health insurance. Most expats who are under a relocation programme to Italy have this type of benefit so it's highly like that you also have one. If the policy from your employer doesn’t include your dependents, you can always call a private company to ask about their various types of insurance products. There are international companies in Italy such as CIGNA Global, who offers global health care to expats across the world. There is also the Alleanza Assicurazioni, a leading Italian insurer that was founded in 1898.

It is easier now to get a quote or an idea about the different types of plans a company offers. You can just simply go to their website, and you will find almost all information that you need. Keep in mind that once you have decided to purchase a policy, ask the agent to explain to you all the details of your coverage so that you won't have any problems when the time comes that you need to file a claim.

Importance of Insurance

 Italy is known for having excellent health care and implementation of high sanitation levels that will help prevent major diseases or outbreaks. However, expats are still strongly advised to get vaccinated against hepatitis A, measles, rabies and tetanus. Some take these precautions for granted because it can cost some money. But if you have health insurance, you can benefit from preventive services such as vaccinations, doctor visits, physical exam and diagnostic tests without ruining your budget. These medical services are essential in preventing serious illness.

Local Insurance in Italy

Italian insurance industry is one among the four largest sectors in the United Kingdom. As of 2015, there are 114 insurance companies in the country where life-insurers are the major role players. All of these providers are under the supervision of IVASS (Istituto per la Vigilanza sulle Assicurazioni), whose primary purpose is to regulate and ensure that all of them are operating in a lawful manner.

No vehicle or driver is allowed to drive in Italy without a TPL or third party liability insurance. It is mandatory for all owners to take out insurance against personal injury or property damage caused by their car. The TPL insurance should cover not just the driver but also the passengers as well as family members. It is best that you get this type of insurance from a local company since your existing plan may not be applicable in Italy.

The country has many reputable insurance companies especially those whose main products are life coverage. Expats should also consider getting an international insurance since some local providers have limitations when it comes to medical coverage. Depending on your chosen plan, an international insurance can cover your emergency needs and health care worldwide.