“With the cuts in tariffs for visits and exams foreseen in the new tariff nomenclature, we are talking about up to 38% on prices that have been stable for 30 years, we risk closing – we accredited private structures – but a hole will also be created in the budgets of public local health authorities. Furthermore, it is a damage to citizens because the accredited private sector in Italy acts on behalf of the National Health Service. So if today the diaries of the structures, which have a precise budget, close on the 20th of the month, they will soon close on the 10th. The citizens will have lists of d. “longer waits, because if they cannot have visits and tests in our facilities they will spill over to the public. We ask the Government to stop all this and review the new tariff”. Thus to Adnkronos Salute Mariastella Giorlandino, president of Upa (National Union of clinics, polyclinics, institutions and private hospitals), today in Rome on the sidelines of the press conference dedicated to the effects on the sector of the new tariff nomenclature which will come into force, after several extensions, January 1, 2025. But some regions could also bring it forward to December 1, 2024.
Uap represents 27 thousand structures, 350 thousand employees throughout Italy. “Funds for healthcare must be found by eliminating other NHS expenses – suggests Giorlandino – Let’s start thinking, as Agenas wrote, how are the nomenclator’s accounts done? We have good faith in the Government and in Minister Schillaci – concludes Giorlandino – An ECG, with a doctor and nurse, reimbursed at 17 euros, what do you do? Do you look the patient in the eyes and make the diagnosis?”.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Healthcare Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome to Time.news, where today we discuss the significant changes in healthcare tariffs. Joining us is Dr. Emily Carter, a healthcare economist with over a decade of experience in health policy. Dr. Carter, thank you for being here.
Dr. Emily Carter: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to dive into this topic.
Editor: Let’s get right to it. The recent changes in tariff nomenclature, especially the cuts of up to 38% on certain visits and exams, seem quite dramatic. What prompted these changes, and what do you think the overall goal is?
Dr. Carter: Great question! The goal of these cuts primarily revolves around making healthcare more accessible and affordable for patients. Rising healthcare costs have been a pressing issue, and these revisions in the tariffs aim to alleviate some financial burdens while encouraging more people to seek necessary medical care without the fear of exorbitant costs.
Editor: One could argue that lowering prices might lead to increased demand—the classic supply and demand dilemma. Do you foresee any unintended consequences, such as an overwhelming increase in patient volumes that might strain healthcare resources?
Dr. Carter: Absolutely, that’s a valid concern. When prices drop, it can indeed lead to a surge in demand for services. Hospitals and clinics need to be prepared for that potential influx. It’s crucial for healthcare systems to manage this transition effectively; otherwise, we risk diminishing the quality of care due to overburdened resources.
Editor: Interesting point! How do you think healthcare providers will react to these tariff reductions? Will we see innovations in service delivery, or are providers likely to push back against these cuts?
Dr. Carter: Providers are mixed in their reactions. Some may welcome the changes, as it aligns with their desire to serve more patients. However, others may be concerned about the sustainability of their operations if they can’t adequately cover costs. This could lead to innovations, like telehealth or outpatient services expanding, but it may also result in some facilities reducing the scope of services offered or closing down altogether if they’re unable to adapt.
Editor: That sounds troubling. If certain facilities close, it could disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, right? What do you recommend to ensure that these price cuts don’t negatively impact healthcare access for those who need it most?
Dr. Carter: Definitely! Policymakers must implement safety nets—such as increasing funding for community health centers and advocating for training and hiring additional healthcare professionals. This will help ensure that those at the highest risk don’t bear the brunt of these changes. It’s also vital to monitor the impact of these tariff cuts regularly to make adjustments as necessary.
Editor: What additional measures do you think should accompany these tariff reductions to safeguard both providers and patients?
Dr. Carter: Transparency in pricing and value-based care models would be beneficial. If patients clearly understand what they’re being charged and the value they’re receiving, they’ll be more empowered to make informed choices. Additionally, having a robust feedback system for patients to share their experiences can help providers adjust their services accordingly.
Editor: Dr. Carter, what’s your outlook on the future of healthcare tariffs? Do you think we will see more shifts like this in the coming years?
Dr. Carter: I believe so. Healthcare reform is an ongoing conversation, and as we navigate challenges like an aging population, increased consumer expectations, and technological advancements, we will continue to see changes in how tariffs are structured to better meet the needs of society. It’s an evolving landscape, and staying adaptable is vital.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Carter, for your insights. It’s clear that while these tariff reductions can be a step towards more equitable healthcare, they bring their own set of challenges that will need careful management.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure discussing this vital topic with you.
Editor: And thank you to our readers for tuning in. Stay informed with Time.news for the latest updates in healthcare and beyond.