Can I choose a GP outside my municipality?

In general, the GP must operate in your residential health district. However, many regions allow choosing a doctor in a neighbouring district, with a reason (e.g. workplace). Check your region's rules.

How many times a year can I change GP?

There is no formal limit, but some regions impose a minimum interval (often 6 months) between changes, unless there is a justified reason (relocation, GP retiring).

Can a GP refuse to take me as a patient?

Yes, only if they have already reached the patient cap (around 1,500 patients). In that case the ASL automatically assigns you an available doctor.

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Easysalute

Changing your GP

You can change your general practitioner (GP) at any time, for free. The procedure is done at your local ASL office or online in the regional health portal. You do not need to give reasons: it is a right guaranteed by the National Health Service.

Authority

ASL di competenza

Time

15 min

Updated

Apr 2026

What you need

✓Health card (Codice Fiscale)
✓Identity document
✓Access to the regional health portal (if done online)

Step-by-step procedure

Choose your new GP

Check the list of available doctors on your region's portal (e.g. fascicolo sanitario) or ask at the ASL. GPs have a patient cap (~1,500): if the doctor you want is at capacity you cannot choose them. Check the surgery is in your district.

Make the switch

You can do it in two ways: at the ASL office (bring health card and identity document) or online on the regional health portal with SPID or CIE. The switch takes effect immediately or within a few working days.

The health card is automatically updated in regional systems. No new physical document is needed.

Book your first appointment with the new GP

After the switch, contact your new GP to book a first appointment. Bring your most recent medical records (reports, tests, ongoing treatments) to help them take charge of your care.

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Portale regionale della salute

ASL di competenza

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Frequently asked questions

Responsible authority

Authority

ASL di competenza

Phone

Certified email

Website

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The information in this guide is for orientation only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Always verify on the official portal of the responsible authority.