by Maximiliano Crocamo
Interviews: Riccardo Riccardi, FVG Councilor for Health, Social Policies and Disability, Delegate for Civil Protection
The Friuli Venezia Giulia regional government inaugurated a new three-year training program in general medicine on Monday, emphasizing the importance of trust-based relationships between doctors and patients in primary care.
Speaking at the event, Regional Health Councillor Riccardo Riccardi highlighted the ongoing role of human connection in medicine, even as technological advances and artificial intelligence increasingly support scientific work. “You possess a value that technology cannot replace: the direct relationship with people,” he said.
Riccardi outlined several measures aimed at strengthening primary care, including additional support staff, enhanced professional collaboration, and integration of general practitioners into community health centers and residential care facilities for non-self-sufficient patients.
He also announced that a new regional law, expected to reach the regional council on Monday, would allow health authorities to contract retired doctors. While the national government handles fiscal and social security aspects, the region is taking steps to address local workforce needs.
Finally, the regional administration has allocated €4.8 million over three years to align the training program with university-level standards, recognizing the critical role of general practitioners amid evolving social and demographic needs. “Health demands today reflect not only medical care but also reassurance and social support,” Riccardi said.
