GP

Hi Hazy, I am really sorry re your plight AND you are located in the Ascoli Piceno area. There has been a LOT of conversation about this over 60 (and below 65) age group on these boards. I suggest starting with the 'Marche Healthcare' group area. Penny is our resident expert, and no doubt will respond in due course. The bottom line is (as I understand it) regarding charges is that for 'non critical' requirements one pays the total cost where prescriptions are concerned, for 'critical' conditions they should be free. Blood tests and the like are paid for and can vary in the amount of the cost dependent upon how many tests are doing done with your sample. (it's called paying the ticket). Re your understanding - I'm going to check in the UK as I understand they give Italy money for me to the Italian health Service once I'm sixty,  - I'm not aware of this, but I believe that due to people retiring to Italy/France/Spain etc from the likes of the UK, each of these countries have similar charging structures for the over 60s to cover the ever increasing costs. I suggest you search these boards as there will be a LOT of info that may be helpful. You may also find a LOT of responses to your posts as well! Good luck with your fight and more importantly your health, S