In a recent extraordinary session of the regional council, Guido Bertolaso, the Welfare Assessor of Lombardy, addressed the challenges facing the regional health system. He acknowledged that while the system is not in critical condition, it suffers from significant issues, including a shortage of family doctors. Pierfrancesco Majorino, the leader of the opposition Democratic Party (PD), criticized the regional government for allowing citizens to be held at ransom, emphasizing that many are forced to pay for medical care due to long waiting lists and inadequate government action on these matters.

Nicola Di Marco, the leader of the Five Star Movement (M5S), echoed the need for a shift in strategy, urging for increased investment and a reevaluation of the regional health service's organization, particularly regarding the role of family doctors and community health centers that have yet to provide all the promised services. Their call for a transition from private to public healthcare reflects a growing concern about the accessibility and quality of health services in Lombardy.

As the region grapples with these healthcare challenges, the discussions shed light on the urgent need for reform to prevent a further decline in public health services. The ongoing issues not only affect patients who face difficulties in receiving timely care but also stress the importance of addressing bureaucratic hurdles that hinder healthcare professionals from providing effective services. The outcomes of this regional council session may have extensive implications for how healthcare is structured and delivered in Lombardy, impacting the future of medical practice and patient care in the region.