Healthcare in Palermo
Public emergency care is good but can be crowded. Private clinics suit minor issues; call 112 or 118 in emergencies.
Hospitals for foreigners in Palermo
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Ospedale Civico (ARNAS Civico) | Large public hospital with 24-hour emergency |
| Policlinico Paolo Giaccone | University hospital with emergency services |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: €60–120 ($68–135) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Italy: Good public hospitals; emergency rooms (pronto soccorso) treat everyone, with fees for non-urgent cases. EHIC holders get public care; others need insurance. Private clinics in big cities.
- Pharmacies: Green-cross farmacie everywhere; a rota 'farmacia di turno' covers nights. Many medicines need a prescription.
- Health spending: US$3,398 per person a year (2024); 4.2 doctors per 1,000 people (2022), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 113 · Ambulance 118 · Fire 115 · All emergencies 112.
Travel and health insurance
Required for entry: Schengen visa applicants need travel medical insurance with at least €30,000 cover.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Palermo for foreigners?
Ospedale Civico (ARNAS Civico): Large public hospital with 24-hour emergency
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Palermo?
About €60–120 ($68–135) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Italy?
Schengen visa applicants need travel medical insurance with at least €30,000 cover.
More about Palermo
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Italy
- AMAT Palermo (public transport)
- Falcone-Borsellino Airport
- Comune di Palermo
- ARNAS Civico
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.