Breaking the Stalemate: How Italy's Non-Medical Health Professions Are Trapped by Redundant Roles and Ineffective Degrees

Abstract

This letter addresses the critical issues affecting non-medical health professions in Italy, highlighting the inefficacy of master's degrees and the proliferation of redundant professional roles. Despite advanced training, these professionals often experience stagnant career progression and limited autonomy due to overlapping roles and resistance from the medical community. The letter also underscores the lack of European harmonization in educational standards, which exacerbates these challenges. To improve the system, the letter advocates for reducing role overlaps, reforming advanced education, and promoting greater autonomy for non-medical health professionals to ensure patient-centered care.