Vetralla faces shortage of general practitioners

The town of Vetralla is experiencing a shortage of general practitioners following recent retirements and announced resignations. The opposition group Vetralla Unita has declared a health emergency, stating that thousands of citizens are at risk of losing access to essential services, including prescriptions, medical certificates, and management of chronic conditions.

In response to the crisis, opposition councilors have formally requested an open city council meeting involving the Viterbo ASL and the Lazio Region. They noted that the territory, which includes Vetralla, Civita Castellana, Ronciglione, Nepi, and Fabrica, has been designated a “deficient zone” by the Lazio Region for several years.

Mayor Sandrino Aquilani has dismissed the opposition's claims as political propaganda and alarmism. He stated that the situation is being monitored by municipal authorities and the ASL. The Mayor announced that a new general practitioner is scheduled to begin service in Vetralla on October 19. He emphasized that while the municipality collaborates with health authorities, the direct assignment and replacement of doctors fall under the jurisdiction of the regional healthcare system and the local health authority.