Italy debates reintegrating doctors dismissed during Covid-19 pandemic

The Italian Chamber of Deputies has approved an amendment to a healthcare professions bill that would allow for the reintegration of medical professionals who were struck from professional registers during the Covid-19 pandemic. The measure, which passed with 126 votes in favor and 113 against, now moves to the Senate.

The proposal has sparked significant political and scientific debate. Supporters, including Fratelli d’Italia deputy Alice Buonguerrieri, argue the measure ends an injustice against doctors who refused certain protocols. Conversely, the Patto Trasversale per la Scienza (PTS) has criticized the move as a “black page” for Parliament, claiming it undermines scientific evidence regarding vaccine efficacy and creates unequal treatment for healthcare workers.

Health Minister Orazio Schillaci has distanced himself from the majority's decision, stating, “I believe in science and therefore also in vaccines.” Meanwhile, former Health Minister Roberto Speranza defended pandemic-era decisions, including lockdowns and vaccine mandates, during a parliamentary inquiry, asserting that these measures were fundamental for public safety.