The Regional Governance of Italian Genomic Services
The Italian healthcare system is highly decentralized, meaning that while the central Ministry of Health sets general goals, the 21 regions of Italy manage the actual delivery of genetic tests. This structure has led to a network of excellence, particularly in northern and central regions like Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna, and Tuscany, where genetic registries and specialized laboratory networks are most advanced.
The "Essential Levels of Assistance" (Livelli Essenziali di Assistenza) ensure that basic genetic diagnostics for life-threatening or chronic conditions are available to all citizens. However, some regions have gone further by offering proactive screening programs, such as Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT), as part of their standard public health package. This regional model allows for local innovation, such as the creation of specialized "Genomic Hubs" that serve as reference points for smaller clinics, ensuring high-quality interpretation of complex DNA data across the territory.

