New Tariff Nomenclatures: Discover the Decades-Awaited Innovations

  • WorldScope
  • |
  • 14 November 2024
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New Tariff Nomenclatures: A Change Awaited for 28 Years

Starting from December 30, the new tariff nomenclatures for specialist and prosthetic medicine will come into force, an update that has been awaited for almost three decades. This renewal includes a wide range of services, from medically assisted procreation to stereotactic radiotherapy, up to advanced devices such as digital hearing aids and cutting-edge artificial limbs. The Tariff Decree, approved by the State-Regions Conference, marked a fundamental stage after a long process of discussion between the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF), the Ministry of Health and the Regions. This update, which affects over 3,000 services, represents a significant step in the new Essential Levels of Assistance (Lea).

Economic Impact of New Tariffs

The overall impact of the new tariff proposal is estimated at 549.9 million euros, divided into 502.3 million for outpatient specialist care and 47.6 million for prosthetics. This figure marks an increase of approximately 150 million euros compared to the last version approved in 2023. Among the main new features are:

  • Introduction of advanced diagnostic and therapeutic services, now accessible in the outpatient setting.
  • Updates to fees for cataract procedures, with additions to cover anesthesia evaluation.
  • Adjustment of fees in medically assisted procreation, following the indications of the Emilia-Romagna Region to guarantee a complete care path.

Prosthetic Performance Updates

The new nomenclature also expands the list of orthotics and prostheses to include mobility aids and orthopedic footwear. Tariffs have been redefined based on standard manufacturing costs, providing more comprehensive coverage than previously only partially included devices. To meet the economic needs arising from these reforms, part of the coverage already provided for in the LEA DPCM of 12 January 2017, amounting to 380.7 million euros, will be used. Additional funds will be needed to address the additional costs estimated at 169.2 million euros.

A Look to the Future

With the introduction of these new rates and services, the Italian healthcare system is preparing for a significant transformation. The adaptation not only responds to the current needs of patients, but also lays the foundation for increasingly effective and innovative specialist care. The future of healthcare will require continuous review and updating of services to ensure that citizens receive care that is appropriate to their needs.

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