In a recent session of the Regional Council held in Trieste on March 19, 2025, Riccardo Riccardi, the Regional Health Councillor, addressed questions about the Community Hospital planned for Monfalcone. He clarified that, as of now, there is no ministerial or regional funding allocated for this healthcare facility. "Al momento, negli atti di programmazione non è previsto alcun finanziamento ministeriale o regionale destinato a un Ospedale di Comunità a Monfalcone," stated Riccardi.
The Azienda sanitaria universitaria Giuliano Isontina (Asugi) is, however, considering the allocation of existing spaces within its hospital complex to accommodate this anticipated Community Hospital. The current plan includes dedicating 20 beds specifically for the Community Hospital and an additional 16 beds for post-acute patients. Nevertheless, the actual activation of the hospital is contingent upon a thorough health evaluation. Riccardi emphasized, "L'attivazione dell'ospedale di comunità seguirà però una precisa valutazione sanitaria," stressing that this step is crucial in line with regional healthcare program assessments.
Enrico Bullian, a Regional Council member from Patto per l’Autonomia-Civica FVG, recently conveyed the response he received from Riccardi regarding the future of the Community Hospital. Bullian highlighted that although there is a potential plan for a total of 36 beds at the facility, there remains significant uncertainty, particularly around securing necessary funding. He pointed out that attention has not been adequately focused on health care matters in Monfalcone, suggesting that this oversight contrasts with advancements made by other regions in establishing similar facilities. Bullian remarked, "C’è una possibile previsione di un’Ospedale di Comunità a Monfalcone con 36 posti letto complessivi, ma che manca ancora ‘una precisa valutazione sanitaria.’"
During his address, Riccardi noted ongoing work to source funding through the Pnrr (National Recovery and Resilience Plan). However, he indicated that Monfalcone is not the specific focus of dedicated funding efforts within this framework. The current state of affairs, according to Riccardi, could lead to adjustments and available resources in future planning cycles to support the operations of the Community Hospital.
The need for this facility was previously underscored in recent discussions, particularly in light of the steady rise in health service demands within the community. Bullian highlighted the gap in healthcare access and affirmed the necessity of addressing this issue cohesively. The lack of funding and defined timelines is problematic, particularly when compared to rapid developments in regions like Gorizia, where substantial financial investments have been committed toward new healthcare infrastructure. Bullian recalled a visit to the former Pneumological Hospital in Gorizia, where a project is underway with an investment of 46 million euros aimed at enhancing community health services.
This dialogue in the regional council signifies a crucial discussion point regarding health equity across different territories. Bullian's statements reflect a broader concern over resource allocations, emphasizing that addressing local health needs should be prioritized by local governance. He expressed hope that further deliberations would lead to necessary financial backing and prompt action to establish the Community Hospital promptly.
The community's healthcare needs call for urgent solutions, particularly as the demand for accessible health services grows. With Riccardi and Bullian acknowledging the pressing need for the Community Hospital, the next steps rely on securing funds and undergoing critical health evaluations to ensure its viability. The regional assessments promised by Riccardi, which are expected soon, will determine not just the future of the Community Hospital but also the overall commitment to improving health services for the residents of Monfalcone.
In conclusion, while there are plans to set up a Community Hospital with a considerable allocation of beds, funding constraints and lack of health evaluations remain significant hurdles. Both Riccardi and Bullian provide assurances that the revitalization of healthcare services in Monfalcone is being seriously considered within broader regional health discussions. The community and its leaders must now strive to convert these discussions into actionable plans, ensuring that Monfalcone does not lag behind in securing vital health resources.
