Italian healthcare professionals seek closer doctor-pharmacist collaboration

Healthcare professionals in Italy are discussing new models of cooperation to improve local assistance. Andrea Mandelli, president of the Federation of Italian Pharmacists' Orders (Fofi), has proposed strengthening the integration between doctors and pharmacists regarding prevention, therapy management, and prescription continuity, provided the doctor maintains control over the process.

Annarosa Racca, president of Federfarma Lombardia, suggested that extended electronic prescriptions could allow pharmacists to dispense medication periodically as established by a physician, potentially improving therapeutic adherence. This comes as the STADA Health Report 2026 indicates that while 59% of Italians report good access to medicines, only 23% feel supported by digital health tools like telemedicine.

In Lombardy, the seasonal influenza vaccination campaign is set to begin on October 1. Dr. Ivan Carrara, secretary general of the Italian Federation of Family Doctors (Fimmg) in Bergamo, stated that vaccinations will initially target the most fragile and bedridden patients at home, followed by the elderly. From October 12, the campaign will expand to the general population, with many pharmacies participating alongside general practitioners to administer doses.