Don't feel well on vacation in Genoa? A doctor for tourists, explained calmly

It happens, even on vacation: a sore throat that doesn't go away, a stash of medicine that ran out earlier than expected, a child with a fever the night before returning. It's not an emergency, but it's not something to ignore either-and the good news is that in Genoa, solving it is easier and faster than you think, without having to clog up an emergency room with a problem that isn't.

Here's a practical guide for anyone looking for a doctor for tourists in Genoa and not sure where to start.

You just need to renew a therapy you already follow at home

It's the fastest solution ever, and in most cases it solves everything in minutes.

You need a doctor in Genoa for a new, non-urgent problem

In Genoa, there are Community Houses, direct-access medical clinics, without reservations, open 24 hours a day every day - designed exactly for situations such as a sudden earache, a small infection, a pain that worries but is not an emergency.

A more urgent consultation is needed, but not from an emergency room.

For a situation halfway through - not very serious, but which cannot wait until the next day - there is Continuity of Care (the old "medical guard"), reachable with a free toll-free number unique throughout the territory: 800 893 580. For those who don't live in Liguria, the fee is approximately 25€ for an outpatient visit, amounts required by national contract, which may vary: it's best to ask for direct confirmation when calling. Your doctor may prescribe medications for a short cycle and certificates for a few days, which is useful even just to justify a change in travel plans.

If it's a real emergency

A note for those arriving from a European country

FAQ

What to do if I'm sick on vacation in Genoa?

It depends on the severity: for a renewal of therapy, all you need is your home doctor via electronic prescription; for a new but non-urgent problem, Community Homes are open 24/7 without a reservation; for an urgent, non-emergency room consultation, call 800 893 580; for a real emergency, call 112.

How much does a medical visit to Genoa cost for a non-resident tourist?

A visit through Continuity of Care (800 893 580) has an indicative rate of approximately 25€ outpatient for non-residents in Liguria. Community Homes and the emergency room follow different rates and rules, depending on the case.

Where is the nearest emergency room to the center of Genoa?

The main reference for adults is the San Martino Polyclinic Hospital. For children and adolescents, the pediatric reference is the Giannina Gaslini Institute.

Do you need a European health card in Italy?

It is not mandatory to receive care, but if you are an EU citizen, it is always a good idea to bring it: it guarantees access to necessary care at no additional cost for essential services, under the same conditions as residents.

Sources: Municipality of Genoa - Local Health Care ASL3; toll-free number 800 893 580 - Continuity of Care.