Naples health authority seeks 5 million euros for missed medical appointments

The Asl Napoli 1 Centro is initiating a large-scale recovery of unpaid healthcare fees in Naples, Italy. Approximately 107,000 citizens have reportedly booked medical visits, exams, or X-rays over the last decade but failed to attend or cancel their appointments. Under current regulations, patients are required to cancel appointments at least 48 hours in advance to prevent unused slots from blocking other patients on waiting lists.

To date, the Agenzia delle Entrate-Riscossione has already sent 85,000 payment notices totaling approximately 3.9 million euros, covering the period from 2016 to 2024. An additional 22,000 positions are currently under administrative review, which could result in another 900,000 euros in recoveries. In total, the health authority aims to recover nearly 5 million euros.

The issuance of notices for services dating back nearly ten years has caused some confusion among residents, leading to concerns regarding the authenticity of the communications. The health authority has clarified that these are official debt recovery procedures and has advised citizens to consult the institutional website for guidance.