The role of family doctors in the protection and care of citizens has never been more important than during the recent resurgence of seasonal flu and Covid infections. These medical professionals act as a vital link between patients and the National Health Service, providing direct care, prescribing therapies, managing acute and chronic illnesses, promoting prevention, maintaining medical histories, and providing continuity of care.
However, the shortage of personnel at a territorial level and organizational shortcomings have posed significant challenges for family doctors. Tommasa Maio, National Secretary of FIMMG – Continuity of Care Sector, highlighted the strain that recent health crises have placed on general practitioners. “The increase in cases of respiratory illnesses has put general practitioners in serious difficulty, managing ordinary activities while also conducting vaccination campaigns and handling acute cases that cause a dramatic increase in patient visits,” Maio stated. “There is certainly a problem of shortage of doctors in many areas of the country, which risks worsening if solutions are not implemented to facilitate and orient the vocational choice of young doctors towards this specialty.”
Maio also discussed the critical issues related to the figure of the general practitioner, emphasizing the need to address access to care, bureaucratic burdens, and the simplification of procedures for the management of chronic conditions. He noted that the widespread presence of family medicine, equipped with study staff, nurses, and diagnostics, is essential to ensure that medical assistance is readily available for those in need.
The challenges facing family doctors in the current healthcare landscape are significant. However, Maio and FIMMG are advocating for solutions that will ensure the continued provision of high-quality, accessible medical care for all citizens. As the recent health crises have demonstrated, the role of family doctors is indispensable for the well-being and protection of the population.