UGL Salute warns of nursing shortages in Italy's Community Houses

UGL Salute national secretary Gianluca Giuliano has raised concerns regarding the implementation of the 'Case della Comunità' (Community Houses), a key pillar of Italy's new territorial healthcare model. While the physical structures are being launched, the union warns that the model cannot function effectively without clearly defined professional roles and adequate staffing.

A significant shortage of specialized personnel has been identified. It is estimated that approximately 19,000 family and community nurses are required to fully implement the model, yet only about 2,000 are currently in service.

Giuliano criticized the current approach as a paradox, noting that nurses are being asked to take on new responsibilities in territory-based care while their professional functions, responsibilities, and contractual recognition remain uncertain. The union is calling for immediate action to define professional autonomy, organizational structures, and economic recognition for these nurses, rather than waiting for the next contract renewal.