Action Against Over-Prescriptive Doctors Sparks Controversy
In an effort to reduce waiting lists and unnecessary medical services, the Government is cracking down on over-prescriptive doctors. The new decree on waiting lists, expected to be discussed in the Council of Ministers within the next 15 days, aims to prioritize the reduction of waiting lists by addressing the issue of prescriptive appropriateness.
Defensive medicine, which forces many white coats to prescribe ultrasounds or additional visits unnecessarily, has been identified as a major contributor to the long waiting lists. The decree will require doctors to indicate the performance-related diagnostic code on prescriptions, making it easier to track unnecessary services.
The Government is also considering allowing hospitals to purchase services from doctors in a freelance capacity, known as intramoenia, to help alleviate waiting lists. Additionally, there may be a gradual increase in the spending ceiling on personnel to allow for more hiring in the healthcare sector.
While there are no immediate plans for sanctions against doctors who over-prescribe, the Higher Institute of Health will provide guidelines for good practices in various therapeutic areas to ensure appropriate prescriptions.
The controversial action against over-prescriptive doctors has received mixed reactions. Filippo Anelli, president of Fnomceo, believes that the measure is inapplicable and infringes on individual health decisions. Alessio D’Amato, national Welfare manager of Azione, criticizes the approach and suggests that the focus should be on increasing staff and resources.
Minister Schillaci, however, stands by the Government’s efforts to address long-standing issues with waiting lists. He emphasizes the need for systemic change in the healthcare sector to improve efficiency and effectiveness in patient care.