A new law proposed by Democratic MP Marco Furfaro and unanimously approved by the Chamber of Deputies ensures that even the homeless have the right to a family doctor. The law, composed of three articles, allocates 1 million euros for 2025 and 2026 to progressively provide healthcare for all homeless individuals without registered residence in Italy or abroad. This experimental measure now awaits approval from the Senate to come into effect.
The law aims to restore the right to healthcare for tens of thousands of homeless people who have been neglected by the state. Marco Furfaro, the first signatory of the bill, believes that this law will show that emerging from a state of fragility is possible and that politics can positively impact people’s lives. Currently, individuals without registered residence do not have access to healthcare services unless facing emergencies. This leaves vulnerable populations, such as families, victims of violence, and those who have lost their homes, without proper care.
The new law is in alignment with the principles of equality and the right to health outlined in the Constitution. It follows the principles of the National Health Service established in 1978, which guarantees healthcare to all individuals regardless of their social or individual conditions. The law will be implemented in 14 metropolitan cities for two years with a budget of 2 million euros to cover over 60% of homeless individuals in Italy.
ISTAT data from 2022 shows that there are 96,197 homeless and homeless individuals in Italy, with the majority being men and 38% being foreign citizens. The law aims to provide dignity and rights to those who are often overlooked due to their precarious living situations, leading to physical and mental health issues. The hope is for the Senate to quickly and unanimously approve this law to ensure the well-being of thousands of vulnerable individuals across the country.