Expat Healthcare Guide: Medical Care in Bologna

Healthcare Overview

Bologna offers healthcare facilities across 12 medical districts, with a cost of living score of 4.0/5. Explore insurance options, hospitals, and medical costs for expat families below.

Bologna offers excellent healthcare through Italy's Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN), a universal public healthcare system. The city is renowned for its medical excellence, hosting one of Italy's oldest medical schools and the prestigious Policlinico Sant'Orsola-Malpighi, one of the largest hospitals in Italy. Bologna's healthcare system benefits from Emilia-Romagna's efficient regional management, consistently ranking among Italy's top regions for healthcare quality and patient satisfaction. The system provides comprehensive coverage to residents with a strong focus on preventive care and specialized treatment.

Quick Stats

Security Score

4.0 /5

Cost of Living

4.0 /5

Medical Areas

Cost Items

Top Healthcare Neighborhoods

See All 12 →

Centro Storico

Density 4/6

Facilities: University hospitals, clinics, specialty centers

Notable: Policlinico Sant'Orsola-Malpighi, Casa di Cura Madre Fortunata Toniolo

Santo Stefano

Density 4/6

Facilities: University hospitals, clinics, specialist centers

Notable: Policlinico Sant'Orsola-Malpighi, Rizzoli Orthopedic Institute, Casa di Cura Vil...

San Vitale

Density 4/6

Facilities: Hospitals, clinics, university medical centers

Notable: Policlinico Sant'Orsola-Malpighi, Ospedale Bellaria, Poliambulatorio San Vitale

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Practical Tips

Ensures you are assigned to an available doctor who can provide primary care and referrals.

Use the CUP service points at Ospedale Maggiore instead of central locations

waiting times are typically 70% shorter and staff are more helpful

Book non-urgent tests through the AUSL Bologna app between 2-3 AM

new appointments are released at midnight and usually available until early morning

Visit Farmacia Centrale for vaccine certificates after 8PM

less crowded and staff have more time to handle international vaccination documents

Useful Links

Bologna Local Health Authority (AUSL)

Official regional health authority site with information on accessing public healthcare services, registering with the national health system, and finding doctors in Bologna.

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Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital

Official website of Bologna's main university hospital, providing information on medical specialties, appointments, and emergency services.

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Foreigners' Health Services - Bologna AUSL

Specialized healthcare information for foreigners, including how to obtain the Italian health card (tessera sanitaria) and access medical services in Bologna.

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Emergency Healthcare Information

Official regional portal explaining emergency medical services, the 118 emergency number, and proper usage of emergency rooms in Bologna and Emilia-Romagna.

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INPS - National Social Security Institute

Official government site with information on healthcare benefits, maternity leave, and social security services available to foreign residents in Italy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Bologna offers both public and private healthcare options for expats. Quality and accessibility depend on your insurance coverage and chosen facility. Use ReloPlanner to compare healthcare options and costs.

Bologna has 12 neighborhoods with notable healthcare facilities. The best areas depend on your specific medical needs. Check ReloPlanner for detailed healthcare density scores.

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Data verified: March 2026

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