Public healthcare in Umbria is in an unprecedented crisis. Years of cuts, mismanagement, and privatization have pushed the regional healthcare system to the brink of collapse, with overcrowded hospitals, endless waiting lists, and an increasing number of patients seeking care in other regions. The response of the Proietti regional government to this catastrophic situation is an increase in taxation, justified by the specter of government intervention – a measure that, without addressing the structural causes of the crisis, risks once again burdening the most vulnerable social groups. This, despite the fact that the appointment of a government commissioner seems far from imminent, as reportedly confirmed by the (private) agency hired by the Proietti administration.
Faced with this unacceptable choice, we strongly denounce the inadequacy and injustice of the regional government’s plan. If taxation must be increased, it should be genuinely progressive, ensuring that the burden does not fall on workers, the unemployed, and families already struggling with the economic crisis. The sacrifices cannot be imposed on those who are barely making ends meet while leaving untouched the privileges of private investors in healthcare, who profit from public contracts without assuming any risk.
We firmly demand that funds for restoring public healthcare be sourced primarily by cutting agreements with private healthcare facilities, which in recent years have siphoned crucial resources from the public service, favoring profit-driven logic at the expense of the universal right to health. It is unacceptable that while public hospitals are being drained of staff and resources, the private sector continues to enrich itself with public funds.
The recovered funds and additional resources must be primarily allocated to restoring the efficiency of public healthcare facilities in delivering essential services, strengthening local and community-based healthcare, which is crucial for ensuring accessible care for all, particularly in rural and inland areas. Furthermore, investments are needed to improve the working conditions of healthcare personnel, who are now exhausted after years of cuts, job insecurity, and exhausting shifts. Without revitalizing the public sector and valuing those who provide care and assistance daily, Umbria’s healthcare will continue to be a privilege for the few rather than a right for all.
We strongly condemn the political forces that, while claiming to be “left-wing,” continue to support the Partito Democratico (Democratic Party) and its disastrous management of healthcare. Their role is merely to neutralize protests, misleading the population with empty and unconvincing reassurances. The only possible response is organization – to unite public healthcare workers and those who rely on the system. Only through a determined struggle can we stop the creeping privatization of healthcare and reclaim the right to a public, free, and high-quality healthcare system.
We call on all Umbrian citizens: do not stand idly by while our right to health is being dismantled. Take to the streets, organize, and fight for a public healthcare system worthy of its name!
