Pharmacies in Italy expand healthcare services via telemedicine

Pharmacies in Italy are increasingly serving as local healthcare hubs through the ‘Farmacia dei Servizi’ initiative. In the Campania region, specifically within Naples and its province, over 1,000 medical services have already been performed within just a few days of the program's launch.

These services include electrocardiograms (ECG), cardiac Holter monitoring, and blood pressure Holter monitoring. For ECGs, results are validated remotely by a physician and sent to the patient's primary doctor. For Holter monitoring, pharmacists install the device for 24-hour data collection, with reports subsequently verified via telemedicine.

Riccardo Maria Iorio, President of Federfarma Napoli, noted that these services help reduce the burden on local health authorities (ASL) and shorten waiting lists. Beyond diagnostic tests, pharmacies are also facilitating colorectal cancer screenings, mammogram bookings, and regional booking center (CUP) services. Other available local services include blood and urine analysis, blood pressure monitoring, hearing tests, and vaccinations.