Healthcare Waiting Times in Italy and Sweden: A Comparative Analysis and Policy Implications

Author(s): Matteo Maria Cati

This study compares waiting times in Sweden and Italy, analyzing both structural and policy-driven causes of delays and proposing data-driven solutions, starting from the consideration that not only healthcare waiting times are key indicators of the health system's accessibility but also of system efficiency. While Italy has historically struggled with regional disparities and underfunded territorial healthcare, Sweden, despite its traditionally efficient system, is now facing an unprecedented rise in waiting times. Using data from national health ministries, the OECD, and recent policy reports, this study presents visualizations and Python-based simulations to analyze inefficiencies. Sweden's €6.5 billion healthcare investment and Italy's €3 billion increase (under NADEF 2025) are evaluated, though not all these funds are allocated to reducing waiting lists. Policy recommendations focus on digital integration, financial incentives, workforce expansion, and telemedicine. The study also introduces a mathematical efficiency model, AI-driven scheduling simulations, and an analysis of Italy's Case della Comunità (Community Houses) and territorial healthcare projects facing challenges due to doctor shortages.