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Where to go in case of serious emergency vs. minor illness or injury in Rome.

Recognizing the differences between ‘emergency’ and ‘urgent’ care can be confusing, because both terms imply there is a medical need that needs to be addressed quickly, so how do you know if you should go to an emergency room or urgent care?


An Emergency Department treats life- or limb-threatening health conditions in people of all ages. Hospital emergency departments provide medical care at any time, day or night. Unlike urgent care centers or walk-in clinics, they are equipped and staffed for even the most complex or critical needs, including life- and limb-threatening situations ranging from heart attack and stroke to traumatic injuries following a car accident.


Urgent Care is the middle ground between your primary care provider and the Emergency Department. If you have a minor illness or injury that can't wait until tomorrow, Urgent Care is the way to go.


If you are visiting or new to Rome, you might be wondering, “Where can I find doctors or hospitals near me?” We have compiled a list for you of 5 major hospitals located centrally in Rome including Urgent Care.

If you are experiencing chest pain, difficulty breathing, uncontrolled bleeding, confusion or changes in mental state, extreme pain, or other serious symptoms, you should call 118 (the Italian medical emergency number) or take yourself immediately to the Pronto Soccorso (ER) of the nearest hospital.

Here is a list of 5 major hospitals located centrally in Rome: These are all public hospitals with emergency departments (Pronto Soccorso).

Ospedale Fatebenefratelli (located on Isola Tiberina, between Trastevere/Centro Storico)


Policlinico Gemelli (Trionfale)

Ospedale San Camillo (Portuense)

Ospedale Sant’Eugenio (south, closer to EUR)

Children’s Hospital: Bambino Gesu (Gianicolo, between Vatican/Trastevere)

FirstMed Urgent Care: Emergency department wait times in Italy can be many hours long. And navigating the healthcare system in a foreign country with doctors who may speak little or no English can be extremely stressful.


If your medical problem is not an emergency then urgent care is your next best option. Conveniently located in the north center of Rome not far from Termini and the Borghese Gardens, FirstMed is a private clinic that offers both immediate (same-day) and follow-up care for residents and tourists in Rome. All of our doctors, nurses, and staff speak English. We pride ourselves on high standards of quality healthcare, efficiency, and patient satisfaction.

Save time and effort. Choosing FirstMed could save you hours of waiting and frustration in a hospital in Rome. We will schedule an appointment with the appropriate GP or specialist to ensure that you receive the care and treatment you need, with the high quality you deserve.


We offer direct billing for many accepted international insurances. If your insurance is not one of our partners, we will help you prepare your claim for reimbursement.

Call us now to schedule your visit. If you would like to schedule a visit with us, please call us at (+39) 06 40 06 14 02 One of our English-speaking receptionists will be happy to find a doctor and a time that works for you so we can make sure that you get the care and medical attention you deserve.

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