impegnativa

Impegnativa is a formal document used in the Italian national health system (SSN) to authorize and fund health services. It is issued by a physician—typically a general practitioner or pediatrician—and given to the patient to access a specified service.

The form includes the patient's personal data (name, date of birth, codice fiscale), the issuing physician's data and professional credentials, the date of issue, the type of service requested (for example a visit to a specialist, a diagnostic test, or hospital admission), and the priority level. Each impegnativa carries a unique number used for internal tracking and billing. In addition, it may contain clinical information or a provisional diagnosis relevant to the requested service.

Process and coverage: The patient presents the impegnativa to a public hospital or to an accredited private facility to book the service. The SSN covers the service according to regional arrangements; the patient may pay a ticket or co-payment unless exempt by law or regulation.

Digital evolution and scope: In many regions, impegnative are issued electronically (eImpegnativa) and managed through online health portals. The instrument is distinct from the prescription (ricetta) and from private-paid care; it is specifically intended to allocate SSN-funded care, including specialist visits, diagnostic imaging, laboratory tests, and sometimes hospital admissions.

Terminology and usage: The term derives from impegnare, meaning to commit or allocate. While primarily a healthcare term, impegnativa can also signify a general obligation or commitment in Italian.