Once in possession of the residence permit, you can register with your local health authority ('L'Unita Sanitaria Locale' or USL) to obtain your national health number. You can then register with a doctor ('medico convenzionato').

When you visit your doctor's surgery (ambulatorio), be prepared to wait, as there are no appointments - the system is first come, first served.

If the language barrier is a problem, the British Embassies usually hold contact details for English-speaking doctors in your area.

The Italian national health system ('Servizio Sanitario Nazionale' or SSN) offers low-cost health care of a good standard, with well-trained and dedicated doctors, though waiting lists can be long. The top private hospitals rival those of any country. State hospitals vary in quality, with little 'creature comforts'- hence the popularity of private health insurance.

Emergency treatment is available to everyone. EU citizens benefit from reciprocal health agreements - bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with you to prove entitlement.

Retired people from EU countries should bring Form E121. If you take regular medication in your home country, find out its generic name from your doctor (not its brand name) to avoid confusion.

Take your prescription ('ricetta') to a pharmacy ('farmacia') to be dispensed. Italian pharmacies are small and family-run, with the sign of a green or red cross outside.

Dental treatment - going private is recommended by many expats.