Healthcare Poverty and Access to Healthcare Services in Italy: The Challenge of Public-Third sector Integration

The analysis proposed in the article falls within the studies on the relationship between health and inequalities, focusing specifically on the issue of healthcare poverty in high-income countries. This term refers to the consequences of resource scarcity on access to healthcare services, particularly those not covered by the public health system. The topic is addressed with specific reference to the Italian case, first demonstrating the existence of healthcare poverty even in a universalist context, and then analyzing the role played by third-sector organizations in mitigating the effects of this lack of public coverage for healthcare needs. In conclusion, the article highlights the need for a closer connection between the National Health Service and the services provided by non-profit organizations active in the area of social hardship.