The final phase of the reform is underway: centralized health data, obligations also for private individuals and more services for citizens. But there is still low use and strong gaps between Regions
The electronic health record is changing, entering a new phase. From 31 March 2026, the last operational phase begins: Rules change, obligations increase and potential grows. It becomes the single point for collection and consultation of all Italian health data. A close deadline, which Italy is reaching with some critical issues. In fact, the most recent data show that only 27% of citizens have used it in recent months, and just 44% have given consent to the consultation. Furthermore, strong differences persist between Regions, with services and documents available in a non-uniform manner. The reform is underway, but we need to bridge the territorial gaps and convince Italians to really use it now.
What is the electronic health record and why it is important
The electronic health record is a digital archive that collects a person’s entire clinical history: reports, prescriptions, hospitalizations, vaccinations. With the version launching on March 31, the system is standardized at a national level: the data must be entered according to uniform formats and made accessible, while respecting privacy, to authorized professionals anywhere in the territory.
The new rules from March 31st: obligations for doctors, including private ones
The most important news concerns the extension of the obligations to the entire healthcare system, including private individuals. From the end of March all structures, public and private, must enter data in the electronic health record; documents must be in standard digital format; digital signature is mandatory; the reports must be uploaded within a few days (in many cases within five) and the data must be transmitted to the regional portals. The obligation also concerns medical practices, clinics, laboratories, private clinics and freelancers. This puts an end to one of the main limitations of the past: the presence of “information gaps” for visits and tests carried out outside the National Health Service.
The synthetic health profile: the turning point for emergencies
Among the most important changes is the so-called synthetic health profile, a form filled out by the GP that summarizes the patient’s health situation with essential information: chronic pathologies; allergies and ongoing therapies. It is a fundamental document, because it can be consulted even without explicit consent, in case of emergency, for example in the emergency room.
Health File 2026: what changes for citizens, doctors and healthcare facilities
For citizensthe electronic health record becomes a much more operational and useful tool. You will have online access to all reports, analyzes and prescriptions; you will save time (you won’t have to keep track of everything, but it will be automatic) and you will be able to add personal documents, including private or foreign ones. Furthermore, sharing information between different healthcare professionals reduces the risk of duplicate tests and improves continuity of care. The health record also includes a personal notebook, where you can enter data on lifestyle, health parameters and information from devices wearables. It will also be possible to share documents with a doctor via link or QR code, avoiding printouts and bureaucratic steps.
For healthcare professionalsthe change is epochal. They will have access to the patient’s complete medical history, and this will also lead to a reduction in unnecessary tests and greater continuity of care. Even in cases where the patient limits consent, the doctor can consult at least the summary profile in urgent situations. For structures, however, adaptation requires technological investments and a review of internal processes, as well as greater staff training.
Available services and access to the health record
The electronic health record is not only an archive, but also allows you to book visits, pay tickets and change GP. Approximately 21 types of documents are available, including laboratory reports, radiology reports, discharge letters, emergency room reports, vaccination certificates and prescriptions. At the moment, however, only Emilia-Romagna has completed the entire route, guaranteeing all services. How do you access your health record? Via digital identity: SPID, electronic identity card or health card. The citizen can delegate up to five people to manage his/her file. For minors, management is the responsibility of the parents.
Privacy and control of data on the health record
Health data is accessible only for treatment, prevention or research purposes. The citizen maintains complete control. You can decide who sees your data, redact specific documents, and revoke consent at any time. The system also provides access traceability, so as to guarantee maximum transparency.
