Italy healthcare faces funding concerns as PNRR resources expire

Italian healthcare officials and advocacy groups are raising concerns regarding the long-term financial sustainability of the public health system as funding from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) nears its conclusion.

In Tuscany, Regional Health Councilor Monia Monni highlighted a projected deficit of approximately 130 million euros for the 2026 budget. She noted that the region faces a potential loss of 200 million euros in revenue due to national decisions regarding car tax (bollo auto), which impacts regional healthcare funding. Monni emphasized the need for hospital specialization across Tuscany’s 46 facilities to optimize service delivery.

Separately, Tonino Aceti, president of the association Salutequità, warned that the continuity of territorial health services—including community homes, telemedicine, and integrated home care assistance (ADI)—depends on immediate refinancing in the upcoming budget law. Aceti noted that while PNRR funds helped increase home care coverage for those over 65 from 4.6% in 2019 to a projected 11.3% in 2025, there is a critical need to ensure these services are maintained and directed toward high-complexity care after 2026.