Italian regions establish permanent health coordination tables

In Puglia, the regional health commission created a permanent institutional table on obesity to develop a single diagnostic‑therapeutic pathway and guarantee uniform care across the region, from Lesina to Tricase. The initiative responds to data showing that more than one adult in seven in the region is obese and over half of residents aged over 65 are overweight. The table will draft regional guidelines, implement a hub‑and‑spoke network linking reference centres such as the IRCCS De Bellis, and launch school‑based prevention programmes.

In the Insubria area of Lombardy, the local health authority (ATS Insubria) set up a permanent strategic table for prevention and health promotion. The body brings together regional health agencies, social‑health services and third‑sector organisations to coordinate actions on chronic diseases, oncology, screening, and care for frail individuals and caregivers. It will operate through thematic working groups, aim to reduce health inequalities, promote healthy lifestyles and strengthen community‑based health models.