Congedo di malattia
The sick worker has the right to maintain the job for the time required by law or by collective agreements. During his/her absence, the employee is entitled to a salary to the extent provided by law, collective agreements, usage or in equity.
The duration of paid sick leave is usually set by collective agreements and is usually of 180 days in a year maximum. Metal workers, for example, are entitled to 6 months paid sick leave for workers with 3 years of service or less, 9 months for 3-6 years of service, 12 months for more than 6 years of service.
During sick leave, worker is entitled to 100% wage. 50-66,6% of the wage is usually paid by social security (INPS) and the employer has to add a percentage to reach 100% of the worker’s wage. First three days are always paid by the employer.
Source: §2110 of the Civil Code
Assistenza sanitaria
Healthcare services are provided to all Italian citizens, who are entitled to receive all the care that their state of health requires. Although medical care is free of charge for some categories (according to age or income, for pregnant women, etc), usually a contribution is required. If the treatment is not prescribed by a physician or provided through the normal hospital system or if the patient chooses the doctor other than that allocated by the healthcare system, fees imposed by the care provider are paid by the patients. Benefits include health care in living and working environment (preventive care); general and specialist care at district level; hospitalization and in-home nursing; maternity care; medical rehabilitation; ambulance services; and medical examinations.
Source: Decree of 29th November 2001
Periodo di comporto
Employment of a worker is secure during the first three months of his sickness if he/she has up to 10 years of service, and for the first six months if he/she has more than 10 years of service. However, according to collective agreements, usually an employer can't serve a notice of termination to a sick worker during the first six months (180 days) of sickness. The collective agreement of metal workers provides for up to 24 months of job security.
Source: §6 of the Royal Decree n. 1825