Italy proposes new bill to allow healthcare professionals private practice

A new legislative proposal, Bill No. 985, aims to permanently remove exclusivity constraints for nurses and other healthcare professionals employed by the National Health Service (SSN). Introduced by the Lombardy Regional Council, the bill seeks to transform current temporary derogations into a stable legal right.

Under the proposal, healthcare professionals working in SSN agencies, IRCCS, and similar entities would be permitted to engage in private practice outside of their official working hours. This activity could take place at a patient's home, in authorized private facilities, or within their current public institutions (intramurary) or other accredited structures. The bill applies to both permanent and fixed-term employees.

The legislation includes safeguards to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure that private activities do not prejudice the institutional duties of the professional's primary employer. Proponents suggest this could expand professional opportunities in home care and territorial assistance, addressing the growing demand caused by an aging population.