Financing options for the digitalization of the long-term care in Italy

In Italy, the digitalization of long-term care (LTC) is a key focus within broader healthcare modernization efforts. The National Recovery and Resilience Plan (Piano Nazionale di Ripresa e Resilienza, PNRR), supported by the European Union’s Next Generation EU program, is central to these advancements. The PNRR dedicates substantial funding to enhance LTC through digital transformation, focusing on telemedicine, remote patient monitoring, and care coordination systems. This initiative aims to improve service accessibility and quality, particularly for older adults relying on home care or institutional services.

The Ministry of Health drives these efforts at the national level by launching funding calls for innovative projects. These include the implementation of electronic health records (EHRs), digital platforms for integrated care, and training programs to enhance healthcare professionals’ digital skills. Home care services are a priority, leveraging technology to enable elderly individuals to age in place while receiving necessary medical and social support.

Regional governments, responsible for healthcare delivery, also play a critical role in implementing digital solutions. Regions often use national and European funding to develop localized strategies, such as telemedicine pilots in rural or underserved areas, ensuring equitable access to digital LTC services.

While international programs like the Technical Support Instrument (TSI) and Interreg initiatives provide additional resources, Italy’s approach focuses on national priorities. The goal is to create a digitally integrated LTC system that addresses the needs of an aging population while reducing disparities across regions. These efforts aim to ensure a sustainable and modern care infrastructure that meets the growing demand for efficient and high-quality long-term care.