The Italian Parliament has officially passed the "Liste d’attesa" decree aimed at reducing long waiting times in the national healthcare system.

The law introduces measures such as the "Salta-Fila" provision, allowing patients to receive care in private facilities if public hospitals cannot accommodate them within the required timeframes.

Critics, including Elly Schlein, the leader of the Democratic Party, argue that the government is prioritizing private healthcare over public investment, claiming that the new law lacks sufficient funding and will not address the underlying issues of the healthcare system.

Schlein highlighted alarming statistics, noting that many patients are still waiting excessively for essential services.

The decree also includes incentives for healthcare workers to take on extra shifts, but opposition leaders warn that this could lead to further staff shortages and increased pressure on existing personnel.

As the government pushes forward with these changes, concerns about healthcare accessibility and equity continue to grow among the public.