Italian Health Care Pros and Cons as an American Retired in Italy

[@willeigo8468]

I broke my leg in Austria, my colleague broke his leg in Colorado on the same day. We both required surgery with pins and plates. I paid $2000 Euros cash , no insurance involved. My colleague was billed $20,000.

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Italian healthcare is excellent, and Emergency handled very well. Also very inexpensive.

[@elinorcherubini9316]

I am from the UK but have lived in italy for 50 years. If you live in the north east as I do you are well looked after and many things are free after 65. In the south there are problems with overcrowded hospitals and long waiting lists

[@infothelaughingretirement3008]

Thanks for the info. Chip

[@valerianocuomo996]

Perché gli inglesi vivono nel senso di inferiority verso l Italia. Io odio chi va a servire ai tavoli in inghilterra perché se togli Londra 4 volte piu ricca del resto del paese,non è paragonabile ricchezza, industry, export,stile di vita,mezzi di trasporto, strade, Birmingham è un pisciatoio ed è 2ND città inglese.hai girato il nord e il centro,per questo ci invidiate? Voi pescatori noi ingegneri. Che volevi insinuare ? Noi dominiamo

[@jerryriccio5680]

Grazie, this is what I needed to hear. I am contemplating a move to Italy. I received my Italian citizenship through juris sanguinis. The cost of living in America is out of control. I love art, museums, architecture, churches, good food and gelato. The only thing I was concerned about was health care and doctors. I have been praying to God for help in making that final decision. You sir, I believe were the answer to my prayers. God bless you and your wife with all good things and many many more years of living la dolce vita.❤️🇮🇹

[@infothelaughingretirement3008]

Thank you so much. I hope it works out for you too. Chip

[@gz7241]

Move to Italy...the best decision

[@panterone1769]

L'assistenza sanitaria in Italia è fra le migliori del mondo, nel nord la migliore in assoluto

[@CarlosMorenoIs2024]

I quoted private medical insurance in Spain and the cost was 2,000 euros a year covering: Medical, Medications, Dental, Vision and every other possible health related support with 0 deductible - this coverage included all social and ALL private clinics. In my opinion, VERY GOOD. Joining the social medical system in Spain is about 600 euros a year

[@valerianocuomo996]

Do you really want to compare the hospitals in central and northern Italy with those in Spain, Catalonia and the Basque country ok .don't get me wrong, UK ,AND OTHERS.It's not just the treatments. All addictions, including sex, for about 2 or 3 years, depend on the community, at the expense of the national health system, poor and rich, room and board, a team of specialists for each group of 5 patients. Once a Spaniard, a Dutchman and an American came to see to exchange ideas about addictions. The American remained silent, shocked 😅, even Spaniards and the Dutch also seeing gyms etc, however, family doctor, private clinic is subsidized: 80% State 20% patient, in the video it says so, 2 anesthetist, 2 doctors, nurses, 2 operations, 2 sterile surgical rooms, 5 hours of operation paid a fifth, 13,000! euros, Private clinic do you know how much it costs in Spain? In Spain the State doesn't cover, you pay for everything, you don't have to blame, the nurses, if you don't sleep, masturbate you until the hot squirt 😅😅 Italy also has 2 real aircraft carriers, f35, many, certainly not JUAN CARLOS 😅 we are G7

[@govinda102000]

Going to Italy over the past 30 years, Have noticed recent years, more Italians especially younger ones speak English even in the Municipal buildings there. Especially in the markets and supermarkets.

[@roadrunner156]

I am an Italian native and dual citizen (US and Italy) and considering moving back to Italy, primarily because of the healthcare that should be free in my case (well paid with taxes of course). Here in the US, I am unsure if I am more concerned with the medical bill or the ineptitude of doctors. Let's say both. Great video by the way!

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Angelo, thank you for the response. We have found the care here, either public or private to be excellent. My wife was treated for cancer, and me for kidney stones. I would add that the culture of way of life here is also exceptional. My Best, Chip

[@roadrunner156]

@@thelaughingretirement4714 I'm glad it is still good. We are lucky that we have a state paid insurance which is very good but Americans are a small accident away from bankruptcy

[@wgarnsey]

Thanks Chip, I've been reading your articles in IL and am pleased to see you create Italian specific content. I had the great experience of living in Italy in high school as an exchange student. 42 years later, I am still very close with my Italian host family. We have sent our children to stay with them and we have hosted seven of their children with us in California. I just retired (and no longer need to live in Silicon Valley), my wife and I are seriously considering Italy as our retirement home. I once spoke Italian pretty well and would love to get it back. Since you are a finance guy, can you please produce a video that gives an overview of the tax consequences for non-EU retired expats living in Italy. I know the Italian tax system is EXTREMELY complicated, but an overview for what we would be facing tax-wise moving to Italy while having retirement, social security and passive income sources would be VERY, very helpful. Mille Grazie! PS-Information about your experience with the Elective Residency Permit and potential Expat visa would be great to see as well.

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

William, I am working on this. As you say, the system Is complicated, and I look for simplicity in everything. I will definitely to the visa video. Stay tuned. Chip

[@gianniferrieri8642]

Im on the peninsula just up the freeway 101 north of PaloAlto... going to Italy purchased oneway ticket leaving March 7th... Been in Cali 38years BUT I still have family in Italy... My wife and I would like to purchase a property and so Im going to see few.... in 38years I've gone almost every year to Italy on vacation no more than 4weeks at the time... Been here 38years I've got adjusted to this way of leaving that IM NOT so sure I can RE-adjust to the ITALIAN way..and that's why this time I purchased one way flight ticket, I want to see if I can stay there longer than just few weeks..... I dont have the language problem because IM fluent, IM afraid of the bureaucracy, im sure that has not changed in 38years... im afraid of the chaos when you go to Bank, Post Office, Supermarket for grocery shopping where people just dont understand how to stand in line for their turn.... CHIP said it right first thing for a FOREIGNER is to learn the language, WE American to often think that people should everywhere in the world need to speak English...

[@infothelaughingretirement3008]

@@gianniferrieri8642 Dear Gianni, great post. It is different, but after 6 years here, I miss it when I am away. America may be the most orderly culture in the world, but I wouldn't trade it for my life in Italy. I miss it when I am not here! Don't let the "bureaucracy" scare you! It is not so different for a foreigner in the US> We tend to take the things we grew up with for granted and forget what it feels like looking from the outside in. Once you have been here a while, the "chaos' become commonplace! My best, C

[@marks.2613]

Others have shared similar experiences . I have dual citizenship now and retiring there is a no brainer .

[@DavidDelli]

Wow, sir. I've been living in Milan since 2018 and even if I made myself up with my career here, I've got into depression lately due to tax payment issues here. They are insane! But after I heart you I feel now that maybe it isn't too bad as I thought compare to USA or other countries. Thanks a lot for you content.

[@infothelaughingretirement3008]

David, I am glad to help. Most of what we think depends on our perception and the direction from which we attack a problem. Glad you could see something new in this! Chip

[@willeigo8468]

plus, in nations such a Mexico, Taiwan and France you can get medical treatment without insurance which is still less costly than US premiums and you can walk into a pharmacy and get all sorts of medicine over the counter without an actual prescription.

[@caregiverinitaly]

I've gotten prescription meds on more than one occassion at our locally owned and operated pharmacy in northern Italy. I've been going there every month for 20 years and know everyone by name. There were also a couple of times my mother-in-law was discharged from the hospital in the late afternoon on a Saturday, no way of getting a prescription from the family doctor. Went to our usual pharmacy with the discharge papers from the hospital and was able to get the medications immediately, providing I contacted the doctor the following week to get the prescriptions.

[@PennyHarding-yc7bl]

You might be interesting in knowing that it can cost more than what you paid. In 2024 I paid 2,000.00 euros for my health coverage and was told it was now a flat fee instead of the 7.5% of my income which is what I payed until this year. I used my British passport to retire in Italy in 2017 when the UK was still part of the EU. The changed occurred this year. I collect Social Security and also have Medicare as I travel back to the States once or twice a year. From what I’ve seen (haven’t looked in depth though) this is about what good travel insurance would cost and rather than trying to find a doctor in an emergency I have my network back in the States. Enjoy your videos.

[@michellemason222]

Thank you for the comparison and especially the costs.

[@LeftToWrite006]

This is one of the better videos about this subject.

[@joannedecarolis4613]

Great information presented in a pleasant fashion. We are in NJ and are considering retiring in Calabria. My husband speaks Italian since his parents immigrated from Italy. Looking forward to watching more of your videos and visiting your other sites.

[@RoedhamHouseRanch]

I'm so glad I found your video channel! You explain things realistically and in a language that even this ol gal can understand!

[@radman3206]

There can be very misleading information regarding the true cost of medicine in a national healthcare system. I live in Australia and have dual Australian/Italian citizenship via my parents. As a member of the medical profession, I’ve had the privilege of being a high wage earner. A couple of years ago, when still working full time, I went over my tax return for the year. Bearing in mind private health insurance is virtually mandatory if you earn above a modest income, the combination of Medicare levy, private health cover and the percentage of my income tax dollars that went to providing health services (as stated on a bar graph of how my taxes were used) was $70,000 for the year. Gaps of many thousands of dollars may also be charged over and above this for private hospital surgery. So “free healthcare” for working people in countries with nationalised health is largely a myth. Bear in mind, that $70k was for one person.

[@brianminerly5755]

So, you're saying that a portion of the money you paid in taxes was used to fund the national healthcare system. That's kind of what a reasonable person would assume.

[@fabriziocoppola6519]

Universale sistem is the best anyway

[@mohammedsharif2651]

Informative video. Thank you. 😀❤️👏. I am hearing that Italy is establishing a golden visa program this year. Looking forward to lean about that. Cheers. 🥂

[@tinacorsini]

Thank you CHIP!

[@RhondaW.]

Thank you Chip!

[@dalp6657]

We came from Brazil to USA in 1996. Now we are close to our retirement and we are concerning. The cost is to high, the retirement will be too low. My background (husband) is Italian. You gave us some relief and very good advice. It will be impossible for us to retire and living in USA. Very sad. We love USA as you….but we have to survive and will be somewhere else. Italy…my ancestors…I will be back.

[@williamh.schmidtjr.7614]

Chip, excellent content as usual. Best regards, Bill

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Glad to see you are still with us. Chip

[@christinehedary1491]

Thank you for the great information that you are provided, please keep doing it, it's great info.

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Will do Chris; thank you for watching. Chip

[@GERARDOLOZADA]

Thank you for share your experience.

[@PietroItalianoo]

Much appreciated and for your actual experience.

[@dianez9211]

Hello Chip, I just found your channel today. Your explanation regarding health care is easy to understand and I appreciate you taking the time to explain your experiences with healthcare. I have read a few other comments here and my question is: Is your only income right now Social Security?

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

No, Diane it is not! Chip

[@montgomeryclark7531]

Wait. WHAT the what!!?? When you need an operation, you need to fork over $13,000??? For some of us, that's the entirety of life savings in old age. So what if you don't have it? What if you don't pay? And is that through the PUBLIC system? Or PRIVATE. Sorry, you probably said, but as the old saying goes, the Memory is the 2nd thing to go. At least in the States, if you don't or can't pay, they're not going to seize your home and kick you out of the country. What would happen in Italy? Aside from my shock and disappointment and dealing with the reality that we may end up eating cat food in our old age, aside from all of that, your channel has been giving us hope. Until now, a real pleasure to watch. Ciao.

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Dear Montgomery, first, I didn't need to 'fork over 13K." I had the choice of waiting -during COVID-19 - for a slot to open, and my surgery would have been at no cost at all. Second, we have had two more surgeries in the public system, one major with almost no cost at all, including a year and a half of therapy thereafter, all successful. Evidently, I didn't explain this very well, or you would not have reacted the way you did. Did I want to pay that money for the surgery? NO!@ it was that or wait ........ for who knows how long until I could get it done. Covid was the problem. Yes, the system is slow, but it is also, in our experience, very, very good.

[@joyce2077]

Thank you 🎉

[@andrewwolkowich]

Thankyou for sharing.

[@zooropaforever]

As an Italian I can tell that, yes, the NHS is cheap and universal. You paid 13k€ for your surgery but if you could wait for the long line staying in the public system it would have been almost free. It seems excellent, but (there are always "buts") I have to advise that there are HUGE differences in terms of overall quality in the HS between northern and southern regions (being the north better than south). Consider that, if you have friends that are planning to live in Italy for long period of times. On the other hand, compared to USA, taxes are really high, in particular on the car fuel. That's how Italians (and europeans I would say) pay their universal health systems.

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Dear Zooropaforever. You are right, except that American taxes are not just Federal taxes. There are also state taxes in most states and real estate taxes in the states that don't have state taxes and some that do. There are also local taxes and large taxes on sales. When put together with insurance costs and deductibles, with all the other taxes, Italys "high" taxes are not so high. Is the national healthcare system perfect? No, not by a long shot, but I believe it is more equitable than the US system, and when considered with everything else, my experience is that it is better. but then that us just one opinion. Time will tell us all a great deal more. Thank you for taking the time to write. Chip

[@andreapatton1826]

You mentioned switching back and forth between public and private. How exactly does that work? Does that require a separate private insurance policy? If it’s out of pocket, do they give you an idea of the cost first so you can decide if you can afford it or need to go public before committing? Also wondering if preexisting conditions are excluded.

[@ronrogers5045]

Thanks for your insights and all your content. It’s been great finding your channel recently. My wife and I are from and always lived in the USA. We’ve been tossing around the idea of retiring to Italy. Our biggest concern is taxes on 401k, Roth IRA and after-tax brokerage accounts. Could you provide some details about the taxes if we want to move and become residents, citizens and/or longtime tenants? Thank you

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Stay tuned I am working on it.. Chip

[@ronrogers5045]

@@thelaughingretirement4714 thank you for all your videos. They’re really helpful. Looking forward to seeing more.

[@spaceshipcool4733]

@@thelaughingretirement4714 Great content, Chip! I find your videos very informative. You mentioned working on a video about taxes. Is it still cooking? I am looking forward to learning more about SS, 401K, Roth IRA, and brokerage accounts. Could you also provide some details about the wealth tax too, is there one in Italy? Thank you!

[@PM-oo7wp]

Dear Chip, why did you need to pay 13,000 for your operations while you said you've got private insurance with not deductible? Cheers

[@ScottishJedi]

Chip, I’m a retired naval officer and am wondering if you have any information regarding healthcare for retired military in Italy. I’m considering retiring overseas after a second career as a psychologist and Italy is one of the countries I’m considering. Thank you. Michael White, PhD CDR, USN (Ret.)

[@judykilger4950]

Parma area is location we would like to vacation in . Specific area you can recommend?

[@jody.wanderlust]

Very informative video!! Thank you! So $13k for your surgeries and care - probably would have been similar or more in the states WITH insurance- pfffttt go figure! Healthcare IS one of the reasons we are looking to relocate out of the States in the future. I’d live within 3 years but not sure that’s a reality. Thank you! Happiness and good health to you and your wife!

[@lileelisamc.4722]

I was travelling in Germany and ran into a dental problem. I speak passable German but had to have a native German speaker accompany me to the appointment to translate the medical terminology. Medical and technical terminology is an entirely new "ball of wax" when it comes to communicating in any foreign language. Also, I 'm not sure about Italy, but found that German doctors do not like being questioned or told "no thank you or I'll wait until I return to the U.S. to use my insurance," It does sound like Italy has reasonably priced insurance.

[@infothelaughingretirement3008]

No Doc likes to be told no, particularly when they have put time into your problem. I doubt that is different here either. But I do think that Italy is reasonably priced. Chip

[@lileelisamc.4722]

@@infothelaughingretirement3008 I allowed and paid the German/Doc/Dentist to give me a temporary crown until I re turned to the U.S. to have my own dentist do a root canal and crown. It was complicated, I'm sure I came across as the obnoxious American. Paying out of pocket and parking my trip while I got a crown was not going to work for my German travelling companion who had just lost his mother so we were in Germany/Austria for her funeral. I've worked for a well known/major healthcare system in the U.S. so I am well aware of Doc's "egos" and to do your best not to offend yet still assert one's own needs and ask questions. It definitely was different dealing with another country's doctor, their healthcare system, and how one should interact.

[@TerryToole]

Love your videos, are you available for chatting? considering retirement in Italy, or Egypt. My wife is citizen of both countries and American also

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Terry, I will be happy to. I give anyone a free 20-minute Zoom chat. Here is the calendar to choose a time suitable for you. Calendar: calendly.com/info-tlr-48

[@danwheeler2496]

Excellent info! Where in Italy did you retire?

[@Rick_Alden]

Health care is what kept me in Europe the last 47 years.

[@maureenmcshane5988]

Great informatio , but Im curious: where do you live in Italy?

[@andreapatton1826]

I just ran across an article saying that Italy was upping the health insurance premium for expats to a minimum of 2000 and a maximum of 2700 euros per year. Still cheap by US standards. Have you heard anything about this?

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Yep, I think that is coming and soon.... even so the cost will still be low. Chip

[@micmontreal4755]

Thanks for informations! Question: Which insurance company offer Best price for retired people over 70? I heard 1500€/year!!!

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Mic I am not sure what you are asking. Insurance co for the first 6 months living in Italy or permanent private insurance. We used Cigna out of Scotland for our first 6 months in Italy. Chip

[@jennifers6435]

What about cost of medications?..that is more than cost of doctors in the u.s…my son’s medications are 6,000. USD per month

[@Freddels1]

I am a dual citizen (US & Italy). I plan to retire there in a few years. Is there a way to find out which prescriptions are available and the cost of prescriptions there?

[@infothelaughingretirement3008]

Dear Fred, In general, not that I know of but.... 1 the cost, most of the time, is considerably less than in the US. 2. The names or the "brands" you are used to don't always exist here. The drugs, albeit with Italian names, do exist, or there is an Italian substitute. I would trust the docs here to find you a suitable replacement. One of the things I have enjoyed about the medical system here is that they may try more homeopathic drugs, to begin with, and then prescribe medicines after finding out how well or not well other prescriptions work. I have also found that my ailments in the US changed as my quality of life rose due to our move here. For instance, I lost wt. My blood pressure dropped to normal - no more HBP meds. And I ate healthier (Mediterranean diet), so no more stomach issues. I hope this has helped. Chip

[@terenceduplock4160]

The voluntary contribution for medical in Ialy is increased to €2000 from January 1.

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Dear Terance, not yet. I just paid my 2024 cost of medical care, and in Lazio, it is 387.34 euros. Or $425.26 at today's exchange rates. Yes, one committee has agreed that the increase is a good idea and passed it on. The full process of passage has not been completed or has not had time to be implemented. Chip

[@fgriseta]

Thank you for sharing ! What part of Italy do you live in ?

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Central Italy, Lazio province Chip

[@snow40741]

Thank you for that info...its a great idea..but what if you are a single girl and don't have family or friends in Italy...were do you begin. Thanks

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Start by investigating what your options are as to living outside the US. We are outlining a video about that now. Once you are set on a country and the areas that are a good fit for you within that country, then connect with expats online. There are many and once you begin to communicate with them, you will make connections and begin to find a community of expats to move to and find others that are willing to help you adjust to living in your new location by telling you where to buy what you need, how to find a car to buy, if you need one, etc. They will also undoubtedly introduce you to others. If you are single, I think this is especially important for the first year or two while you adjust, and learn the language. After that, if you want to venture out of the expat community the transition will be easier for you.

[@judykilger4950]

Where do you live in Italy ? Which area? Do you recommend a certain area to live in? We are in Canada , love the Emilia Romangina

[@MarcoMenozziPro]

Emilia's health care system is perhaps the best in Italy. Veneto and Lombardy are at the same level.

[@jhk11]

Hi Chip. I heard that under the socialized healthcare, access to the services is problematic and you mentioned that you had to wait 2 months unless you converted to private healthcare systems. Is 2 months wait typical when accessing healthcare?

[@infothelaughingretirement3008]

That two months wait had to do with two things. First, it happened during the Covid lockdown when hospitals were swamped. Second, my condition was not rated life or death, A1, I think, I was A3 or B1, so I had to wait in the system. But Covid was the main problem. In the private system, you go with availability, and there was less stress on the private system than on the public system at that time. So, typical, no, but at that time, not unusual. I know my brother in the US also had to wait that long for an operation. It has more to do with the risk to the patient and availability at that time (covid) than with waiting as a norm.

[@jhk11]

@@infothelaughingretirement3008 Hi Chip. Based on your experience there, for non life threatening illnesses, what has been the typical wait period to see a doctor under the National plan? Thank you very much Chip.

[@infothelaughingretirement3008]

@@jhk11 I am not an expert by any means, and I would say that the methods and costs of socialized healthcare are excellent. WHO ranks Italy #2 and the US #36th. Was I to choose the limitations of an insurance company and what they will accept and pay for vs the socialized medicine delivery system, what they will accept and pay for I would take the socialized system hands down, and I have dealt with both. Neither one is excellent, and each has its own problems. I know of people who have had an ankle problem that needed to be operated on that did not stop them from walking and that took 4 months to wait for. I have known of a respiratory problem that was dealt with immediately. I cannot say that I know of an average. I do know that in this system, you can choose your docs, change docs, change hospitals, etc, at no charge and that all the paperwork remains in the system regardless of where you go and who you work with. I also know that when I got CPVID in the US and needed a doc and testing, Medicare paid for the whole thing.

[@M.C.K.111]

Your own doctor can write a priority ( immediately so you go to the emergency unit, within a few days, within a fortnight..). If they don't write a priority, waiting list is much longer!

[@infothelaughingretirement3008]

It depends. My wait was in the middle of COVID. It also depends on the level of risk. Heart and risk of life go immediately... mine was only painful. I change to private as my wait was so long due to COVID. Normally I might have been fine. C

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

RE the proposed 2000 euro per year cost of healthcare. I understand that this proposed bill has passed a committee and nothing more! We just paid our 2024 bill, and it was 378 euros each. As in all things, legislation takes time! Please wait and watch. We will update this site as we learn more information. Chip

[@Cali736]

Healthcare is the best❤

[@Fred-yd9md]

What is the tax situation in Italy? I m sure you pay much more in taxes in Italy than in usa

[@peterchirico2153]

Hi Chip I was wondering if the Healthcare in Italy includes any Dental and Visions care ? I was also wondering if you still have your US citizenship and if so does that mean you have to keep on paying for you monthly portions of US Medicare premiums ? and file taxes in both countries ?

[@infothelaughingretirement3008]

Peter, I do pay my monthly Medicare premium, as I have been told it is tough to get back! I am and will stay a US citizen. I don't have to file for taxes now, as I have no income beyond my SS that is not from my company!

[@terrypagano201]

Chip, I plan to retire to Italy in 2024. How much is the private health insurance?

[@judymarchese6179]

Can you suggest private health care companies for us to look at? We will need private health care to submit our citizenship

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

you have a number of choices and i would have you google: Health Insurance for travelers. We used Cigna out of Scotland. Chip

[@bryannorcross9352]

What are the requirements to retire in Italy if you aren’t Italian, or a descendent of Italian Americans?

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

We are making a video about that...stay tuned

[@kavehfaroughi]

As American what do you need to do to get visa to live as an expat in Italy. I am 63 and my wife is 61

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Hi, I am doing a video on that now..... but basically, there are 5 parts... this is a poor place to do this, so I suggest that you do one of two things. The first is to talk to the Attorney we use; her name is Grazia, and her email is [e-mail]. The other coihice is to go the website of the Consullate your state or county is attached to and then look for services and VISAs. Follow that link.. If you want to stay longer than 90 days or live in Italy, you will need a visa. Follow the links from the Italian Embassy in Washington DC to your Consulate to the visa link and go from there. If I can help, my email is [e-mail].

[@nickpinto9595]

What is the private insurance company you signed up with? Thank you

[@infothelaughingretirement3008]

Nick, I am not signed up with a private insurance co. If I need to go private it's out of pocket. I was with CIGNA 6 years ago when we first arrived for less than one year! Thanks for watching Chip

[@lisamicheleayfergy20]

Can I ask what private healthcare you are enrolled in? We finally made the move and are waiting for my residency card and my health card. I'm a dual citizen but my spouse is not, they changed the rules last June about marriage to an Italian so we're getting her dual citizenship through residency. Did you have to wait till you received your healthcare card after you received your residency? Thanks

[@infothelaughingretirement3008]

Hi, we purchased a bank insurance policy for a short time. It was a pain. Everything is in Triplicate, with all receipts, doctors' notes, etc. I am trying to remember which one. We used Allianz, which we purchased before we left, and we needed it for the first six months here. Once we were here for six months and had our Permisso and our Carta Identita, we applied for the national health system. After one year, we dropped the private insurance as it was a real pain. I hope this answers your question. chip

[@lisamicheleayfergy20]

@@infothelaughingretirement3008 thanks appreciate the info

[@snoringdog1676]

Since you’re a resident of Italy, and I am making an assumption that you receive Social Security, do you still pay for Medicare back in the US?

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Yes I do! It isn't easy to get back, so I will keep it!

[@snoringdog1676]

@@thelaughingretirement4714 thank you for your response. It’s good to know someone who has been through this and who has held onto Medicare. Assuming it would be extremely difficult to get it back if you let it go.

[@federicobellin1895]

Italian dual citizen here, been living in the US for 18 years (different states). The health system here (or better the insurance racket ) is simply criminal . But I guess that 's why we have lobbysts right?

[@maggie2sticks717]

It is expensive but criminal? My son had life saving brain surgery and he didn’t have to wait. Yes, we had insurance and only had to pay the deductible. If we hadn’t I guess then it would be criminal?

[@federicobellin1895]

The pricing has no justification, and the federal government can't intervene by law it is by definition a legalized racket, just look what they charged the insurance in your case are those figures reasonable?

[@alfioragusa1326]

Here in New York a pay 384 monthly just for my cable bill😂😂

[@mr-vet]

Fortunately, for me, I believe that Tricare is sufficient health care coverage for American military retirees in most places throughout the world.

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

You are most likely correct! That's great!

[@imsibille]

But, I don’t understand, aren’t you eligible for Medicare?

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Yes and had it before I left Italy. I still have medicare as well as Italian health coverage

[@brianwhite1189]

New subscriber who just found your channel today and really appreciate the information. Is the €384 per year for a private health insurance policy or to use the public healthcare system? Are there any age limit requirements when shopping for a private health insurance policy? Why would you pay $1400 per month for health insurance in the US when you're old enough for Medicare? I'm 67 yo and Medicare plus a Medicare Advantage Plan costs me $215 per month. Thanks.

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Dear Bryan. The 384 is per year for everything in the national healthcare system. Private insurance costs that monthly and only goes to those aged 75 or under. In the national system, there are some small copays, 10 or 20 or so euros, but for the most part, that's it. We paid $1,460 a month in the US before our Medicare. But even Medicare doesn't pay for everything; limits, holes, and deductibles exist. This is why having a major illness is a major risk in the US but less so in Italy. My wife just had a major operation, and over a year of follow-up treatments, MRIs, chemotherapy, Xray, radiation, etc., cost less than $400 above the insurance. That would not be likely to happen in the US. Your cost of insurance with MAP plans is low as long as there is no major problem. I do wish you well.... my best to you and your family. Chip

[@brianwhite1189]

@@thelaughingretirement4714 This all makes sense. Thanks so much for the detailed response, much appreciated!

[@gayleb9656]

You have to be there for 5 years to get the insurance you have? You must have residency?

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Gail that is incorrect information unless they have changed the rules. In Lazio our requirement is 6 months and your Permisso di Soggiorno, or visa and proof of residency. That was all.

[@willeigo8468]

I don't think language is such a big deal as it concerns medicine. Simply because doctors are scientists, not therapists. And, btw, doctors in the US don't listen anyhow, they just order tests and write prescriptions.

[@gianniferrieri8642]

Chip, where, to whom do you pay your taxes... im assuming, since you retired, you dont work in Italy and so you dont earn an income... does Italy require to pay anything at all in TAXES? I understand that you dont even have to pay property taxes if THATS your only and primary residence in Italy... correct?.... Assuming you pay the IRS, caz UNCLE SAM gets everywhere you go, do you do that ONLINE? Are you getting SocialSecurity sent to an Italian bank? thanks... Im looking at properties down the road from you/Rieti... Gran Sasso area.

[@davidhutchinson5233]

When I hear politicians talk about how private insurance is where the American want to be, I just SMH.

[@johnduffy532]

Do you keep your Medicare in the states?

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Yes I did! Chip

[@camarosspr]

Apart from Americans, Australia, Canada, Japan, rich western europe countries Rest of planet, Africa, South America, Asia, average monthly income is $400 month $13,000 on a single incident is almost 3 years income

[@DavidMoriconiM3inspect]

Can you transfer US money to an Italian bank? Will I have to pay us tax on monies transferred ti Italy. Does Italy tax us funds in an Italian bank, Tks

[@thetravelingkittens1393]

I’m confused as to why your medical was 1400 in the USA ? Weren’t you on Medicare? My mom pays nothing not even for her supplemental with low co pays.

[@infothelaughingretirement3008]

I was on Medicare_ and that cost comes out of SS, adding also my Plan B cost; my wife was still working with a cost of 960 a month with a 6000 deductive, plus the dental and eye care. Yes the total per month was $1640

[@camarosspr]

For rich americans who have minimum $1 million in savings That between husband and wife have $8k-$20k monthly income $13,000 for just one incident it's pitance, for retired w some savings W maybe $4k income, it's a sizable hit, yeah I know in USA would been $150k That why retires escape to war ridden mexico

[@MsWarriordiva]

Did you have to pay that $13k+ for your operations or was it covered by the insurance? I'm assuming it was covered.

[@infothelaughingretirement3008]

Dear Wendy, I paid for that out of pocket. It was for two operations, with two surgeons each time, 1 radiologist each time, 1 anesthesiologist each time, and two nurses each time, and 7 days in the hospital total. And two return visits for checks after the surgery. I carry no insurance other than the Italian national coverage, and private insurance has preexisting conditions, and I have had this problem for over 3 decades. Add to that the fact that private insurance is not available after age 75/

[@dende890]

@@infothelaughingretirement3008 Hello, you said that "...private insurance is not available after age 75". Is it a mistype? What insurance is if not private available then?

[@infothelaughingretirement3008]

@@dende890 Hello, and thank you for your comment. Since I made that statement, I have heard that one Italian company will accept those over the age of 75. But I have not been able to find it! You can get coverage from other worldwide companies, I.E., CIGNA, but those have preexisting conditions. In general, the system pushes those over 75 into national healthcare as we (I am 75) are more expensive and generally in declining health. I have found that the private system, even paid out of pocket, is about as expensive as my deductible + copay in the US. I hope this helps. Oh, and let me say the national healthcare system in Italy is excellent and ranks 2nd according to WHO, and the US ranks about 36. The drawback of the national system is that it is slow.

[@tsocanuck]

how do you stay in Italy without a citizenship?

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Every two years for at least six years we reapply for our permission de.soggiorno or permission to.stay.. We have an extended stay visa.

[@jasmineclark9546]

Ciao Chip, I’ve been reading IL magazine for about 5 yrs and love it! I’ve read a few of your articles. I just found your channel! Great info! Love your style of speaking. My husband & I are planing to retire to Italy in 5 years time(God willing). We can hardly wait! Question: Is the extended stay visa the same as the Elective Residency Visa? I would love to know the difference. Grazie Mille❤

[@popgems]

Prior to moving to Italy, were your wife and yourself under 65? I've never heard of a $1,400 per month Medicare plan. I have friends who are 65 who have regular Medicare Plan G that pay $135 per month for their supplemental plan with a $226.00 per year deductible. They also need a prescription Plan D that has various prices. Unfortunately, with regular Medicare, there is no dental plan. I was wondering what experiences you've had with dental care in Italy and how are the expenses and quality of care?

[@jaymekeiffer5083]

what area of Italy do you live in?

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Hi, I live outside of Reiti. Italy. Chip

[@baronvontollbooth484]

I am trying to figure if my wife and I can afford to retire in Italy. My hang-up is health care costs. First, I don't see how you were paying $1,460 per month in premiums with a $6,000 deductible in the US if, as you said in a reply to one of the comments, you were (and still are) on Medicare. If the $1,460 was for some sort of private, non-Medicare plan, I can believe it but you should have explained that in your video. My wife and I together pay about $660 per month for traditional Medicare including Part B, a deductible of $226 per year in 2023, supplement plans, and Part D prescription plans but not including dental coverage. You said that you and your wife together are paying about 775 Euros per year (about $830 at current exchange rate) for private Italian health insurance. That sounds like a good deal except you still had $13,000 out-of-pocket after your surgery which seems very high to me especially since with Medicare in the US, surgery like that would have no out-of-pocket. A couple of days ago I got insurance quotes from two companies to cover my wife and me in Italy. Cigna charges $731 per MONTH and that's with a 20% co-pay. April Ins. charges 1,550 Euros per MONTH with no co-pay. BTW, I am 70 and my wife is 68. Add that to the $660 per month we would keep paying to maintain Medicare and, well, it would be just too much. Am I missing something? Would those high premiums from Cigna and April just be needed for the first few months until we get our temp. residency visas and then we could get private insurance for a fraction of what we were quoted? Is it true that we would qualify for the public system in Italy a few months after arrival when we get our temp. visas? Sorry for the long message (and thank you for your patience if you got this far) but I certainly don't want to start the visa process part of which requires obtaining a 12 month lease or buying a house without knowing the full cost of health care.

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Baron, my 13\K out-of-pocket was at a private hospital. The public hospital was filled with Covid patients, and my operation had to wait for 3 months. I was in a fair amount of pain and went to a private hospital with no insurance after waiting seven days. We have been told that the healthcare costs are rising, but we won't know for another few days. I hope I have answered or cleared up your confusion. Chip

[@baronvontollbooth484]

So, you did not have private health insurance when you had your operation at a private facility and your cost was $13,000. That makes sense and was a good deal. You had to have private insurance before you received your visa, right? Could I ask how much that was? I have heard from different KZbinrs that it takes 3 months, 6 months, or even 12 months to get the visa and qualify for the public health care system. During that time, it is my understanding that you must have private insurance which, according to the quotes I have gotten, is very expensive. I had some other questions in my original message but don't worry about it. I wish you and your family a happy, healthy, and safe New Year! @@thelaughingretirement4714

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

@@baronvontollbooth484 OUr insurance from CIGNA cost about $50 a month a piece and had preexisting conditions and deductive. Our visa took about 3 months but is much longer now as there is a flood of folks trying to leave. Chip

[@baronvontollbooth484]

$100 per month to cover both of you is a far cry from the $731 per month I was quoted by Cigna. $100 per month we could certainly do but $731? Not so much. It's been frustrating trying to get accurate answers to my questions. For example, I e-mailed the Italian consulate for my state asking about the income requirements for a couple to obtain visas (their website was vague) and I never got a reply.@@thelaughingretirement4714

[@robertdove807]

same here in Canada with health care - everyone pays into it and everyone benefits - dont know why the US doesnt change - oh yes cause of greed by the FOR PROFIT HOSPITALS

[@rebeccar1036]

I would assume it’s easier to provide good and cost effective national healthcare for a country of 50 million vs. the US with a population of 330 million.

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Why? Some sites like the International Citizens Insurance site claim China has the 5th best healthcare in the world and in 2022 their population was @ 1, 426 billion people. I think it all depends on who produces the criteria and how they conduct the survey and collect their data and also how we understand the many flavors of different governments and how that affects the real human experience.

[@valerianocuomo996]

Bullshit. 1st because Italy has 60 million inhabitants, 2ND because Hollywood movies, government propaganda, now people, thanks to the internet, have understood that it is not a crisis of the American dream, the American dream has never existed, only good films, Your young people they die like flies from FENTANIL, it's the fault of doctors and insurance companies, now, even California is zombie land, GDP is fake, 70,000 dollars 😅, all poor part time work, average Americans have 2 jobs to pay for healthcare, young people in debt for college, homeless everywhere, it's strange, maybe they have a good job but it's not enough for home and healthcare. Old infrastructure, from the 1930s, weapons make killers who have 20 seconds of fit, killer police, but are American mothers terrified? I recall that the friend kills the 6 year old son or a massacre. A trillion dollars for arms companies, nothing for society. Everyone is obese, and 20 million civilians killed in wars in the 3rd world. How can you be proud to be YOU...TAKE THE FLAG OUT OF YOUR HOUSE...

[@unknown-user]

It’s all about average salary and take home pay. Americans rather have higher salaries and lower taxes and keep most of their money and deal with healthcare costs on an individual basis. Italians on the other hand opt for a shitty salary that keeps them poor their entire life with a lower standard of living but have free healthcare. Comparing these systems together is a waste of time. It has been debunked. Me personally, I rather keep all my money and deal with ailments as I get them and pay out of pocket if needed be which I don’t because I have insurance through my job. There are also good employers in the U.S. that cover your entire health plan. A friend of mine in Italy at my age still makes €1300 a month after two decades at the same job. I make $120k a year at my 5th job. I’m building wealth and acquiring assets and retiring at 45, he’s scraping by every month trying to stay under the line to qualify for social housing. The so called free healthcare is not free. It’s paid for by a stagnant economy and depressed wages that keep you a slave in a social system. I can’t imagine anyone making the same amount of money for 20 yrs and not revolting against the system because they can get checked for the stomach flu once every two years for free. It’s nonsense.

[@margaretcook-ellis4941]

Where in Italy do you live ?

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Outside of Rieti

[@margaretcook-ellis4941]

@@thelaughingretirement4714 Thank you 💗 My husband and I are new subscribers to your channel . We appreciate your insight

[@giovanniserafino1731]

I am a dual citizen of the USA and Italy. The American healthcare system is a rip off controlled and operated by insurance companies that make millions of dollars every year! The United States government can spend billions of dollars in Ukraine, but cannot take care of the sick and elderly without exacting thousands of dollars for healthcare expenses. My mother was brought by ambulance to the local hospital for an emergency. The hospital was less than 3 miles from our home. The ambulance company charged over $3000 for a 10 minute trip to the hospital! This is a disgrace and a rip off. Please don’t tell me that universal healthcare is Socialism. I rather have “Socialism “ than being ripped off by insurance companies for millions of dollars a year!

[@itawolf2494]

I live near Parma in ltaly,and the cost for the ambulance service is €15 a year.

[@willeigo8468]

Bring a trusted local bilingual friend into the consultation for the translation too. it is not so difficult.

[@mathistedeschi]

I've lived in Italy for 28 years. You are either glossing over the truth and playing fast and loose with the truth or you simply haven't had the misfortune of dealing personally with something other than a mild health issue. The old adage of: you get what you pay for could not be further from the truth. In all honesty, I only watched about half of your video because I was rather put off by your message.

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Sorry to hear that. My wife and I, have spent over one month in hospitals after significant surgeries. My wife has had extensive port operative treatment. And myself with ongoing care. Is it perfect! No! Is it slow? Yes.. but I am wondering what you have to compare it to. If we had gone through what we went through in the US, we would have lost most or all of our savings. AGain I am sorry you were put off, but I am sure many will disagree as will many agree. I wish you well. Chip

[@lindahastings3684]

How old are you and your wife? I’m 72 years old female , single .

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Linda I am almost 75 and my wife 62. Chip

[@estelladog1]

So, $13,000 out of pocket for 2 surgeries?

[@Kar7143jiAn]

Did you pay $13,000 out of pocket?

[@thelaughingretirement4714]

Yes. I did. In there US we were paying 1460 a month for healtjcare with a 6000 deductible. 13000 is less than 10months ins payment without the deductible. CHIP