You can have prescriptions filled at any pharmacy. Medicines deemed essential by the SSN are free, but you still have to have a prescription. Pharmacists in Italy often serve as informal medical advisors, so if you have a minor medical problem you can ask a pharmacist for an opinion.
The pharmacists who work in the main Farmacia Comunale (municipal pharmacy) in Piazza Maggiore are extremely helpful and some speak English. This pharmacy is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, although there is a surcharge added to medication purchased at certain hours of the night.
Lloyds Farmacia Centrale 24H
Piazza Maggiore 6
Tel. 051.239690
Other pharmacies are open on nights and weekends on a rotating basis. Check this website to see which pharmacies are di turno (on duty). You will also find this information posted outside your local pharmacy whenever it is closed.
HERBAL MEDICINE SHOPS
Italy’s ancient erboristerie (herbal medicine shops) are an excellent health resource for those interested in time-honored herbal and natural remedies. These stores carry most herbs in bulk and the erborista (herbalist) is trained to combine different herbs for specific ailments. Here you can also find natural and specialty foods, gluten-free grocery items, herbal or plant-based tinctures, homeopathic medicines, natural beauty products, essential oils, dyes and bulk items.
GIVING BLOOD
Blood donation is organized by AVIS – Associazione Nazionale Volontari Sangue (National Association of Blood Volunteers Tel. 051.6429303) and A.D.V.S. (Associazione Donatori Volontari di Sangue, Tel. 051.6350330). To make a reservation, call one of these associations. Potential donors are given a medical exam and blood test before they are permitted to become regular donors.
Casa dei Donatori di Sangue (run by AVIS)
via dell’Ospedale 20
Tel. 051.3146011
www.bologna.avisemiliaromagna.it
Ospedale Bellaria
via Altura 7
Open: Monday to Friday 7:30 – 10:30
Tel. 051.6350330
www.fidasbologna.org/dove-donare
Ospedale Sant’Orsola-Malpighi
Centro Trasfusionale
viale Ercolani – padiglione 29
Tel: 051.2143539
www.fidasbologna.org/dove-donare