I need to choose a GP.
MEH-di-ko di BAH-ze — three syllables each; 'z' in base is voiced, like in English 'zone'.
Use this when registering with the Italian national health service (SSN — Servizio Sanitario Nazionale). Choosing a GP (medico di base or medico di medicina generale) is the first step and must be done at the local ASL (Azienda Sanitaria Locale) office.
The medico di base (also called medico di medicina generale) is your GP — the gatekeeper of Italian public healthcare. Choosing one is free for residents and EU citizens, and necessary to access prescriptions, specialist referrals, and certificates. You can change your GP once a year. The choice is made at the ASL.
Dove si sceglie il medico di base?
Where do you choose a GP?
At the ASL (local health authority) office; bring your codice fiscale and residence certificate.
Il medico di base mi ha dato la ricetta.
The GP gave me a prescription.
Ricetta is the prescription slip; in Italy it is now often electronic (ricetta dematerializzata).
Posso cambiare medico di base?
Can I change my GP?
Yes, once per year without needing to justify the change.
Italy's Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN) was established in 1978 on a universality principle — healthcare for all citizens and legal residents, free or at low cost. The medico di base is the entry point. Italy regularly ranks among Europe's top healthcare systems by outcome quality, despite chronic underfunding. The SSN is funded through general taxation, not specific health insurance premiums.