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Italy – Emergencies

Italy is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture, but like any other country, it’s important to know what to do in case of an emergency. In this article, we will answer some common questions about emergencies in Italy, including the phone number for emergency medical assistance, where to go for emergency medical treatment, and whether emergency treatment is free or requires insurance.

Phone Number for Emergency Medical Assistance in Italy

In Italy, the phone number for emergency medical assistance is 118. This number can be called from any phone, including payphones, and is toll-free. When calling 118, it’s important to stay calm and provide as much information as possible about the emergency, including the location and nature of the problem.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health emergency in Italy, you can call the National Mental Health Hotline at 800 86 00 22. This hotline is available 24/7 and provides support in multiple languages.

Where to go for emergency medical treatment in Italy

In Italy, emergency medical treatment can be obtained at any public hospital, regardless of whether the hospital is in your local area or not. In general, emergency medical treatment is available at any hospital with an emergency department (Pronto Soccorso in Italian). Private hospitals may also provide emergency medical treatment, but it’s important to check with your insurance provider to see if these services are covered.

If you’re not sure where to go for emergency medical treatment in Italy, you can call the emergency medical assistance number (118) and they will direct you to the nearest hospital with an emergency department.

Emergency Treatment in Italy

Emergency medical treatment is free for everyone in Italy, including tourists. However, any additional treatment or medications may incur a cost, especially if obtained at a private hospital. It’s important to note that while emergency medical treatment is free, it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.


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If you’re an EU citizen, you can use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access emergency medical treatment in Italy. This card ensures that you receive the same level of medical care as Italian citizens. If you’re not an EU citizen, it’s important to check with your insurance provider to see if emergency medical treatment is covered and what documentation is required.

In conclusion, knowing what to do in case of an emergency in Italy can make a big difference. Remember to stay calm and call 118 if you need emergency medical assistance. Emergency medical treatment is free for everyone in Italy, but it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.