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June 2, 2025

Approximately 5 minutes

Italian Market Access: The Importance of the Repertorio and SSN Procurement

Italian Medical Device Market Access: The Role of the Repertorio

Gaining access to the Italian medical device market is a two-tiered process: achieving the pan-European CE Mark and fulfilling crucial national requirements, primarily mandated by the Ministero della Salute (Ministry of Health).


1. Mandatory National Database Registration (Repertorio)

The most significant national hurdle is registration in the Italian Medical Devices Database:

  • The Repertorio: This national database, officially called the Repertorio dei Dispositivi Medici, is where all medical devices distributed in Italy must be registered by the manufacturer or their EU Authorized Representative (AR).
  • Mandatory for All: Registration is generally mandatory for all device classes, but it is absolutely critical for commercial success, as devices must be registered to be sold to the Italian National Health Service (SSN). Since the SSN is the largest purchaser of medical devices, registration directly impacts sales viability.
  • Non-EU Manufacturer Responsibility: Non-EU manufacturers must designate an AR who is responsible for completing and maintaining the Repertorio registration data, ensuring the device remains compliant.

2. Language and Local Compliance

Italy enforces strict national language and safety requirements:

  • Italian Language: All safety information, including Instructions for Use (IFUs), labeling, and technical literature intended for the end-user, must be accurately translated and presented in the Italian language.
  • Fiscal Requirements: Importers and distributors must comply with national fiscal and VAT registration requirements.

3. Vigilance and Market Oversight

The Ministry of Health uses the Repertorio data for robust post-market oversight:

  • Vigilance System: The AR must ensure that any serious adverse events occurring in Italy are reported promptly to the Ministero della Salute's vigilance system.
  • Market Surveillance: The Ministry actively monitors the Italian market, cross-referencing devices sold with the Repertorio data to ensure traceability and compliance, especially for high-risk devices.

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