3945 Having babies in Italy

We are moving to Le Marche soon, hopefully in September if everything works out to plan. I am in the early stages of pregancy and am wondering which is the best health care route to take.

I understand that the system in Italy is often very good, however because I will be part way through the pregnancy I am wondering if it may be better to go private. I don't want to be left with no cover while we apply for residency, join their national health system etc. etc. If it is anything like the UK, even registering at the very beginning stages doesn't always mean you can get into your local maternity wing.

If anyone has any experience of this or general advice on private vs. state health care I would really appreciate it.

Category
Health & Safety

Dear Sarah,

We have just had our 5th baby here and found the care we received in hospital excellent ( Bologna). At the 20 week scan we found out that our son had some serious problems and as such our options for birth were somewhat limited. He is still in hospital in Bologna but has had the most wonderful care and the staff there are excellent. I have heard various things about more local hospitals via the grapevine so if you want to send me a PM I can fill you in. We are living in Loro Piceno