Equitable access to healthcare is fundamental in preventing health inequities, and it is warranted by international and regional norms on socioeconomic rights. However, during financial crisis, pro-cyclical fiscal austerity can shift the cost of healthcare from the public onto the individual, impinging on the right of everyone to access timely and affordable healthcare. This article analyses this process through the case study of Italy, where the 2008 Great Recession catalysed a series of draconian budget cuts in the health sector. Using disaggregated survey data on self-reported unmet needs for healthcare, it will be shown that increased user fees and downsized health staff and facilities, combined with reduced disposable income, was associated with a drastic rise in inequities in accessing healthcare in Italy.

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The aim of this review is to examine the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on health inequalities and discuss effective public policies in containing them. The Covid-19 pandemic has generated not only an unprecedented health crisis, but also a severe economic recession and rapid increase in unemployment and economic difficulties. The poorer socioeconomic classes have been most affected by SARS-CoV-2 infections and deaths due to inequalities in working, housing and area of residence conditions, psychosocial factors, as well as unequal access to health care. However, the effects of the pandemic on health inequalities can be tackled by effective policies of Covid-19 containment based on testing, tracing and isolate timely and stronger social protection measures on behalf of the most disadvantaged populations.

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