As a foreigner living in Venice, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Venice, you will have access to public healthcare. Italy's healthcare system is regionally based, so the quality and availability of services can vary. However, Venice is known for having a good standard of healthcare. The public healthcare system in Italy is known as Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN) and it provides free or low-cost healthcare to residents, including hospital care, medical tests, medications, and consultations with specialists. As a foreigner, you can access the SSN once you become a resident in Italy. You will need to register with a local health authority, known as an Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL), and choose a general practitioner. The healthcare system in Italy is generally well-regarded, with a high standard of care. However, public hospitals and clinics can sometimes be crowded and waiting times can be long for non-emergency procedures. Private healthcare is also available and is often used to supplement the public system, providing faster access to specialists and procedures. Communication can sometimes be a challenge in the public healthcare system, as not all staff may speak English. It may be helpful to learn some basic Italian medical terms or to bring a translator to appointments. Pharmacies are widely available in Venice and throughout Italy, and many medications that would require a prescription in other countries can be purchased over the counter. Overall, while the system may have its challenges, many foreigners living in Venice find that they are able to access the healthcare services they need," said another expat in Venice, Italy.