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In Rome you can receive care through the SSN (public) and the private sector. They often work in combination. Here you’ll find: how to access care, useful documents, payments/reimbursements, and when to choose one or the other. How does the SSN work in Rome, in practice? Strengths: hospital network, chronic-care pathways, inpatient coverage.Frequent limits in Rome: waits for visits/diagnostics, uneven availability, language barrier. How does private care work (with or without insurance)? Strengths: fast timelines, flexible hours, multilingual staff, insurance support.Limits: costs if not covered; some policies require pre-authorisations. SSN or private: when is one, the other, or both worthwhile? Which documents should I always carry? I’m not resident in Rome/Italy: what changes for me? EU/EEA/CH on a short visit EU resident in Rome Non-EU with permit and resident Non-EU non-resident (tourism/short stay) Staff of international organisations (e.g. UN) Students How do I book SSN visits/exams step-by-step? How do I get reimbursed for a private visit with insurance? Quick FAQs (most searched) Can I combine public and private care?Yes—often the best choice: SSN for continuity/hospital care; private for timelines, language, coordination and insurance. I’m not in the SSN: can I still get care?Yes: in the private sector (ideally with a policy). For non-deferrable needs in the public system there are STP/ENI. How does the Emergency Department work?Open access for emergencies; priority set by 5-level triage. What does TEAM/EHIC cover?Medically necessary public care under the same conditions as residents (co-pays may apply). Are teleconsultations and home visits available?In the private sector they often are, when clinically appropriate. Immediate checklist before you leave home Useful numbers Key message (to remember) In Rome, the public system remains central for emergencies and chronic care, and hospital admissions are available in both the public and private sectors. The private route is a primary option when speed, multilingual care, coordinated specialists, and insurance documentation are priorities. Thoughtfully combining the two pathways helps you get better care, faster.

By Dr. Emanuela Quagliata, psychologist at Aventino Medical Group, Rome At Aventino Medical Group, with the support of our paediatricians, I work together with our paediatric neuro-psychomotor therapist to organise special days dedicated to parenting and to infant development in the first months of life. These meetings are designed to offer new parents a calm space for listening, observation and open discussion about the very first steps in their baby’s growth. Every family is unique, just as every child is unique: what is helpful in one situation may not be helpful in another. These meetings are not intended to provide prescriptions or to tell parents what they ‘should’ do. Each child grows at their own pace; some develop more quickly in certain areas and more slowly in others. The experience of pregnancy and birth is lived differently by every mother and within every parental couple. The aim of these meetings is to observe the child together, explore their signals, and reflect on the most appropriate ways of responding to them, enriching one’s understanding of the child. At times, it can be very useful to look at difficulties from a new perspective. We may focus on the feelings of the mother and father, on the possible challenges of breastfeeding, on organising sleep routines, or on the difficulties in understanding or tolerating the baby’s crying. In the first months of life, the infant has very limited ways of expressing what they feel and they are in a state of total dependence and helplessness in relation to the caregiver.  We will reflect on the meaning of the child’s behaviours and on the parents’ doubts and concerns. Mothers and fathers can find much practical information in books but in these meetings we make space for your personal experience, understanding the meaning of your baby’s emotional states, her/his mental development, and her/his relationship with their parents and other significant caregivers. The bond with the child begins long before birth: for a long time, mothers – as well as fathers – have imagined themselves in the role of parent. Some fears are present even before pregnancy; at times they are clear, while other times they remain more hidden. The birth of a child inevitably brings changes in the couple’s life, and the pregnancy itself heightens attention toward one’s inner world and toward the baby who is about to arrive. When pregnancy or birth is difficult, or has involved risks for the mother or the baby, these fears may influence the formation of the first attachment bond. Sharing thoughts and concerns can help build this fundamental attachment bond more calmly, supporting the well-being of the child and the family. Quagliata,E. ‘Neonati Visti da Vicino’, Astrolabio. ‘Closely Observed Infants’ Karnac.Quagliata,E. ‘Cento e un Bambino’ Collana di libri per genitori.Quagliata, E. ‘Un Bisogno Vitale: difficoltà alimentari nell’infanzia’, Astrolabio.

By Dr. Margherita Dal Piaz, Developmental Neuro-psychomotor Therapist at Aventino Medical Group, Rome The first days and weeks after birth are a unique and intense time, when every parent tries to understand their baby: why they cry, what soothes them, what they like, and what bothers them.During this new and delicate phase—where joy often alternates with fatigue and anxiety—many parents ask themselves: “Am I really understanding my baby? Am I responding correctly to their needs?”The NBO – Newborn Behavioral Observation System was created to support families in this sensitive period, helping them read their newborn’s signals and discover their abilities and ways of communicating from the very first days of life. What is the NBO method? The NBO is an observation-based approach developed by American pediatrician T. Berry Brazelton and his team at Harvard University. It is a dedicated session involving parents, their newborn, and a trained professional. Together, they explore how the baby communicates and relates to the world. During the observation, the professional guides parents in noticing how their baby responds to different stimuli—voice, light, touch—and how they express their needs through subtle body cues, gaze, and crying. The NBO is not a test and not a clinical assessment. It is a moment of shared discovery, where parents can observe their baby and become aware of what their child is already able to do and how they signal their needs. Learning to read the baby’s signals helps parents feel more confident and calm, and helps the newborn feel seen, welcomed, and understood. This process strengthens mutual trust and lays a solid foundation not only for the relationship, but also for neurodevelopment. There is, in fact, strong evidence that a responsive, calm caregiving environment has a positive impact on a child’s growth and on the development of their ability to adapt, interact, and learn. In short, the NBO can be seen as a communication bridge: it helps the newborn feel understood and helps parents discover that they already have the inner resources needed to support their child. NBO at Aventino Medical Group: personalised sessions to understand your baby At Aventino Medical Group, we consider the NBO method a practical tool to help parents decode their baby’s signals in everyday life.Sessions are led by our developmental neuro-psychomotor therapist, specifically trained in NBO, and are tailored to each family: the baby’s rhythm, parents’ questions, and situations that may raise concerns (crying, sleep, feeding, awake moments, interaction with siblings, etc.).Each session lasts around 30–45 minutes and takes place in a calm environment that fully respects the newborn’s wake and rest times.NBO is particularly recommended during the first three months of life, but it can be helpful at any moment when parents feel the need to better understand their baby. It is open to all families, with or without specific concerns: a dedicated space to observe your baby together, recognise their abilities, and lay the foundations for a secure bond. Conclusion: giving parents a concrete tool to better read their newborn The NBO method does not replace a standard medical consultation; it complements it by offering parents simple, reliable tools to understand their baby, feel more confident, and support their emotional and neurodevelopmental growth. By learning to recognise their newborn’s signals, parents can adjust their responses more effectively, and the baby feels more protected, understood, and soothed. 👉 If you are expecting a baby or have just welcomed one, you can book an NBO session with our developmental neuro-psychomotor therapist at Aventino Medical Group in Rome. Specialised support to turn early doubts into practical resources, strengthen the bond with your baby, and build a safe, nurturing environment from the very beginning.

By Dr. Christine Blondeel, Midwife specialized in pelvic floor rehabilitation at Aventino Medical Group, Rome Introduction: Understanding the pelvic floor to break taboos The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and tissues that support essential organs such as the bladder, uterus, and rectum. Despite its fundamental role, it is still a little-discussed subject, often surrounded by cultural taboos. Many women live with urinary leaks, a feeling of heaviness, or pain, believing these to be “normal” discomforts linked to age or childbirth. In reality, they are not!Pelvic floor rehabilitation, through targeted programs, helps restore function, muscle tone where needed, or conversely relaxation and well-being, thus improving quality of life. According to the International Urogynecological Association, personalized rehabilitation pathways significantly reduce urinary incontinence and improve sexual health and psychological well-being. What is the pelvic floor and why is it important? The pelvic floor is a muscular structure that acts as a “support hammock” for pelvic organs. Its proper function is essential for urinary and fecal continence control, lumbar stability, and sexual health. When it loses tone and elasticity, it can cause symptoms such as incontinence, chronic pelvic pain, prolapse, or difficulties in sexual relations. Many studies, including those published in the Journal of Women’s Health, show that prevention and targeted training of these muscles reduce the risk of disorders even during menopause. Talking about the pelvic floor means talking about women’s health as a whole, breaking the silence that has too often limited the quality of life for many women. What is pelvic floor rehabilitation? Pelvic floor rehabilitation programs are personalized pathways, tailored to the needs of each patient. They may include guided Kegel exercises, body awareness techniques, biofeedback, electrostimulation, and postural education. The goal is to restore pelvic floor muscle function, improve control, and promote well-being. Guidelines from the European Urology Association confirm that rehabilitation can reduce urinary incontinence episodes by up to 70% in women with mild symptoms and significantly improve quality of life. The approach is non-invasive and progressive, with concrete results often visible after just a few weeks. At Aventino Medical Group, programs are led by a midwife specialized in pelvic floor rehabilitation, in close collaboration with the gynecologists and urologists of the center. When to consult a specialist? Acting early is the key to regaining well-being Many women wait too long before consulting a professional, normalizing symptoms such as small urinary leaks, pain during intercourse, or a feeling of pelvic heaviness. In reality, the earlier the intervention, the better the results. It is advisable to see a specialist after childbirth, at menopause, or as soon as the first symptoms appear.At Aventino Medical Group, the midwife specialized in pelvic floor rehabilitation works in synergy with gynecologists and urologists, offering a multidisciplinary, women-centered approach. This pathway not only resolves bothersome symptoms but also restores confidence, energy, and freedom. Conclusion: Investing in women’s health The pelvic floor is a cornerstone of women’s health, but still too little known. Disorders such as incontinence and pelvic pain should not be accepted as inevitable: with targeted rehabilitation programs led by experienced professionals, it is possible to return to a serene and active life.👉 Don’t wait: book a consultation with our midwife specialized in pelvic floor rehabilitation at Aventino Medical Group in Rome to find the pathway best suited to your needs.

 By Dr. Alessandro Cristaudo, Internist at Aventino Medical Group, Rome Autumn as an Opportunity for Prevention With October comes a new phase of the year: shorter days, temperature changes, and a return to full work and sports activities. It is also a time when certain issues may emerge more frequently: fatigue, palpitations or extrasystoles linked to work stress, headaches, reduced concentration, or digestive disorders. These are often overlooked signals that deserve attention. An autumn check-up does not mean undergoing unnecessary batteries of tests, but rather making a focused assessment of your health with an internist. Through consultation and physical examination, the doctor can evaluate the main risk parameters and, when necessary, prescribe targeted tests for further investigation. What a Basic Check-up Includes There is no rigid scheme, but some tests and evaluations are commonly recommended: The strength of a check-up lies not in the number of tests performed but in tailoring them to the patient’s medical history. An isolated lab result has little meaning without clinical context. Why Early Diagnosis Makes a Difference Many conditions begin silently. Hypertension, for example, can remain asymptomatic for years while progressively increasing the risk of stroke and heart attack. The same applies to elevated glucose, which can lead to type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol, which accelerates atherosclerosis. Identifying these conditions early allows intervention with simple yet effective strategies: improving diet, engaging in regular physical activity, reducing alcohol and tobacco use. In some cases, early pharmacological treatment can significantly reduce the risk of complications. According to the World Health Organization, up to 80% of cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes cases could be prevented through early diagnosis and lifestyle changes. Autumn and Seasonal Vaccines With the arrival of autumn, in addition to check-up tests, it is important to consider vaccinations: a simple step to reduce the risk of illness during the colder months. 👉 Integrating an autumn check-up with preventive vaccinations means facing winter more protected and safeguarding the well-being of those around us. FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions Who should get an autumn check-up? Anyone over 40, those with risk factors (overweight, smoking, family history of cardiovascular disease), or anyone wishing to focus on prevention. Which tests are essential? Blood pressure, basic blood tests, internist examination. Depending on clinical profile and risk factors, the doctor may prescribe other tests (ECG, ultrasounds…). Do I need symptoms to schedule a check-up? No. Its usefulness lies in early diagnosis, allowing action before symptoms appear. Where can I get a check-up in Rome? At Aventino Medical Group, with internists and over 20 other specialties available. Conclusion: An Investment in the Future An autumn check-up means facing the season with greater awareness. It is not just about detecting disease, but about enhancing prevention, improving lifestyle, and protecting long-term health. 👉 Book your check-up in Rome today at Aventino Medical Group or via Doctolib.

By Dr. Giorgia Soreca, Gynecologist at Aventino Medical Group, Rome Prevention as an investment in health Gynecological health is not only about treating disorders but above all about prevention. Regular check-ups and targeted screenings allow for the early diagnosis of infections, lesions, and tumors, increasing the chances of recovery and reducing the need for invasive treatments. Autumn, with its more regular rhythms, is the ideal time to schedule a gynecological visit. Ages 20–30: building the foundations of prevention At this stage of life, the goal is to prevent infections and protect future fertility. These years are fundamental for establishing healthy lifestyle habits and gynecological awareness that will guide future choices. Ages 30–40: balancing work, family, and health This decade brings great challenges: career, motherhood, and time management. But prevention should never be set aside. Ages 40–50: transition and new checks In this phase, prevention expands as the body begins to change. This is the time not to neglect check-ups, as early diagnosis remains the key to every health strategy. Over 50: long-term protection With menopause, the risk of some conditions changes, but prevention remains crucial. FAQ – The most common questions on gynecological prevention How often should I have a Pap smear? Annual check-ups do not increase protection and may cause false positives and anxiety. However, if there are risk factors (immunosuppression, unprotected sex, multiple partners, family history of cancer), earlier checks are recommended. Do I still need gynecological visits after menopause? Yes. Even if fertility has ended, gynecological health remains important. It is useful to monitor symptoms such as dryness, painful intercourse, incontinence, or prolapse, as well as to continue cancer prevention until age 64. Is the HPV vaccine useful in adulthood? Yes. Although most effective when given in adolescence, it can still provide benefits after age 26 in selected clinical situations, reducing the risk of persistent infections and precancerous lesions. Is it normal to have irregular cycles after age 40? It may be linked to perimenopause, a transition phase with fluctuating hormones and less regular cycles. However, irregular cycles may also indicate other conditions (fibroids, polyps, hormonal dysfunctions) that deserve investigation. A reference point in Rome At Aventino Medical Group, a polyclinic in the heart of Rome, every woman finds a personalized prevention pathway, with specialists who speak English and other languages. This fosters trust, clarity, and professionalism. Whether young women, busy mothers, or patients in menopause, prevention is always tailored together. Conclusion Gynecological prevention changes with age but always remains an appointment not to postpone. From HPV protection to menopause management, each stage of life requires dedicated check-ups and strategies. 👉 Book your gynecological visit at Aventino Medical Group in Rome and build with us the prevention pathway best suited to you.

By Dr. Corinne Perisse, Psychotherapist at Aventino Medical Group, Rome When seasonal change becomes a burden The transition from summer to autumn is not just about weather: it affects daily rhythms, light exposure, and mood. It’s common to feel more tired, irritable, or unmotivated. For some, these symptoms last only a few days; for others, they can develop into a real disorder, impacting concentration, relationships, and sleep quality.  A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders shows that seasonal mood disturbances affect up to 10–15% of the population, with higher incidence in autumn and winter months. Symptoms not to be underestimated The psychotherapist reminds us that the main signs of seasonal anxiety may include: If ignored, these symptoms can persist and have long-term effects on psychological well-being. Small daily strategies Prevention begins with simple, accessible steps: According to the World Health Organization, lifestyle plays a key role in the prevention and management of anxiety disorders. When to seek help Personal strategies are not always enough. If symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a psychologist or psychotherapist can be helpful. Professional support makes it possible to understand the deeper causes of seasonal anxiety and to develop personalized tools to manage it. “Therapy is not just about resolving discomfort,” explains the psychotherapist, “but also about transforming it into a resource: learning to manage anxiety can become an opportunity to develop new energy and motivation.” Conclusion Seasonal anxiety is not a sign of weakness, but a natural response of the body and mind to change. Recognizing it is the first step to overcoming it. With small daily strategies and, if necessary, professional support, it is possible to turn seasonal fatigue into positive energy. 👉 Book an appointment with a psychotherapist at Aventino Medical Group in Rome and face the seasonal change with practical and effective tools.

By Dr. Matteo Gregori, General Surgeon at Aventino Medical Group, Rome When time never seems enough Anna is 42, works full time, and has two teenage children. For months, she has lived with a small swelling in her groin, mostly bothersome in the evenings, which her doctor identified as a hernia. “I don’t have time for surgery,” she thinks every time. So, between meetings, grocery shopping, and school commitments, she decides to postpone it. One day, while lifting a grocery bag, she feels a sharp pain. The swelling that until the day before could easily be reduced is now painful and no longer goes back in. She is forced to go to the emergency room: the hernia has become complicated and requires urgent surgery. What could have been a simple, scheduled procedure has turned into a longer and more stressful operation, with a forced recovery that completely disrupts her routine. This story is not unusual. According to the British Journal of Surgery, about 30% of patients who delay minor procedures end up needing emergency surgery, with a threefold increase in complication risk. Small procedures that change lives General surgery includes procedures that, if addressed in time, allow for quick recovery and greatly reduce future risks, especially with minimally invasive, laparoscopic, or robotic approaches. Among the most common are: According to the American College of Surgeons, 80% of scheduled minor surgeries run without complications, whereas in emergency settings the risk increases more than threefold. Autumn: the right time to act September and October mark a fresh start after summer. It’s when work and school routines resume, but also the perfect time to focus on health. Milder temperatures favor post-operative recovery and allow patients to plan rest days more easily. A study published in Annali Italiani di Chirurgia shows that patients who undergo timely surgery experience less anxiety and return more quickly to daily activities. Conversely, those who postpone often live for months with pain, worry, and social or work limitations. It’s not just about medicine, but quality of life Delaying means living with the constant thought of an unresolved problem. Everyday gestures—climbing stairs, exercising, lifting children—become sources of concern. Facing surgery today, instead, means freeing yourself from anxiety and regaining a full life without limitations. Preventive surgery is an integral part of modern medicine: it doesn’t just treat, but also prevents serious complications. It’s an investment in health, time, and peace of mind. Conclusion: better today than tomorrow Anna’s story teaches us that postponing is not always the safest choice. With the guidance of an experienced surgeon, many minor operations can be carried out quickly, safely, and with short recovery times. 👉 Book a consultation with the general surgeon at Aventino Medical Group in Rome: together you can plan the best path to turn a concern into a concrete solution.

By Dr. Eleonora Galosi, Neurologist at Aventino Medical Group, Rome Understanding the Subtle Onset of Autoimmune Neurological Diseases “Often, autoimmune diseases of the nervous system begin subtly,” explains the neurologist. They may present with mild, difficult-to-interpret disturbances: persistent fatigue, muscle weakness, tingling, slight coordination issues, balance problems, or clumsiness in movements. These symptoms are often underestimated or attributed to stress. Yet, they can be the first signs of autoimmune neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, encephalomyelitis, and autoimmune neuropathies. Recognizing them early makes it possible to start effective treatments and prevent disease progression. What Are Autoimmune Diseases of the Nervous System? Autoimmune neurological diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks nerve cells or their protective sheaths (myelin). The result is an acute or chronic inflammatory process that disrupts the transmission of nerve signals at various levels, leading to a wide range of neurological symptoms. The most well-known include multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and myasthenia gravis. Each condition has a different course and can affect individuals of varying ages and clinical profiles, including young adults. The Importance of Early Diagnosis Timely diagnosis is the first step in limiting neurological damage and improving quality of life. Diagnostic protocols are based on a thorough clinical evaluation, brain MRI, neurophysiological tests, and sometimes more invasive procedures such as cerebrospinal fluid analysis through lumbar puncture. Acting in the early stages helps reduce relapses, slow progression, and tailor therapy. It is crucial to consult specialized centers with experienced neurologists who can recognize even the less obvious forms of the disease. A multidisciplinary, integrated approach is essential to ensure maximum safety and consistency in care. Today, treatments for autoimmune neurological diseases include immunomodulatory or immunosuppressive drugs, corticosteroids, monoclonal antibodies, and supportive symptomatic therapies. The choice of treatment depends on the diagnosis, the stage of the disease, and the patient’s characteristics. In recent years, research has opened new frontiers: more selective drugs, personalized treatments based on immunological markers, and regenerative medicine approaches. Neurological rehabilitation also plays a key role in improving residual function and patient autonomy. Living with an Autoimmune Neurological Disease Receiving a diagnosis of an autoimmune neurological disease means reorganizing daily life. Psychological support, stress management, a balanced diet, and tailored physical activity can all help maintain mental and physical well-being. Multidisciplinary care—including the neurologist, physiotherapist, psychologist, and nutritionist—is now considered an integral part of therapy. The family and social environment also play a vital role: understanding the disease helps manage it with greater confidence and peace of mind. Conclusion Detecting these disorders early paves the way for more targeted treatment plans and better life prospects. Staying informed, consulting specialists, and paying attention to the body’s warning signs helps keep open the possibility of managing the disease more effectively. Take Care of Your Nervous System Turn to qualified specialists for a personalized, multidisciplinary health pathway.

By Dr. Nicola Verdirame, Nurse at Aventino Medical Group, Rome Introduction: a concrete service for complex needs Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and multiple sclerosis require continuous care and sometimes delicate procedures. Home nursing care, which I provide on behalf of Aventino Medical Group in Rome, is designed to guarantee patients qualified technical support directly at home. The goal is to simplify therapy management, reduce the need for travel, and ensure continuity of care in line with medical instructions. Home nursing services: comprehensive and accurate interventions From routine treatment to more specialized procedures Daily activities include infusions, administration of biologic therapies, blood sampling, advanced dressings, and catheter management. All procedures are performed according to the indications of Aventino Medical Group physicians and in line with the guidelines of the Italian National Institute of Health and the WHO. Providing these services at home helps save time, reduce the stress of travel, and maintain therapeutic continuity even in complex clinical situations. Coordination with specialists Teamwork when needed When the clinical picture requires it, home nursing activities are integrated with the input of the various specialists following the patient: rheumatologists, neurologists, internists, and other professionals from our clinic. This coordination ensures that every procedure is carried out according to the therapeutic plan, guaranteeing maximum safety and consistency of care. The nurse as caregiver trainer The effectiveness of this role is fully expressed in the ability to transfer knowledge and practical skills to the caregiver. The nurse teaches the family member to: This training process not only relieves the caregiver of emotional and practical burdens but also makes them an active and aware participant in the care pathway. By feeling more competent and confident, the caregiver can provide higher-quality assistance, significantly contributing to the patient’s well-being and quality of life. The home nurse thus becomes a point of reference, a valuable ally for the whole family, ensuring continuity of care that goes beyond the simple professional service. A service that facilitates disease management Technical expertise at the core of care Home nursing is not just about avoiding travel: it is an organizational model that allows patients to receive specialized care promptly and in full compliance with medical prescriptions. Technical interventions performed with attention and precision make managing autoimmune diseases simpler and safer for patients and their families. Conclusion Home nursing care represents essential support for those facing complex and continuous therapies. Through my work with Aventino Medical Group, it is possible to receive qualified services, including the most delicate ones, directly at home, in coordination with the specialists involved in the patient’s care. 👉 Book a home nursing service to evaluate together the most suitable pathway for your needs.