Rome, 16 June (LaPresse) – ‘Despite the Italian Constitution recognising healthcare as a fundamental right and the National Health Service (SSN) having a universalist approach, many citizens still encounter obstacles in accessing healthcare.’ This is stated in the 2025 report on poverty by Caritas Italiana. ‘In 2024,’ the report continues, "according to the National Institute of Statistics, 9.9% of the population, approximately 6 million people, had to forego healthcare services deemed necessary (specialist visits, diagnostic tests such as X-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs, etc.). The main causes can be traced back to two factors: on the one hand, long waiting lists and, on the other, costs that many families are unable to afford. The phenomenon appears to be growing compared to 2023 and the pre-pandemic period, due to worsening conditions of access and difficulties in booking appointments."
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