Advancing Integrated Family-Centered Care: The Role and Impact of Family Centers in Italy’s Evolving Social and Healthcare System

Background Italian family health legislation has evolved progressively, increasingly prioritizing family relationships as fundamental to overall well-being. This paradigm shift led to the establishment of Family Centers (FCs) within traditionally clinical Family Counseling Services, enhancing accessibility and providing comprehensive support to families throughout their life course. Initially conceived as community-oriented spaces, FCs collaborate closely with networks of family volunteer organizations, enabling responsive identification of community needs and flexible, holistic support. This study investigates the implementation and impact of FCs in Lombardy, Italy, addressing the demand for integrated social and healthcare models offering coordinated, family-centered care. Approach Conducted in partnership with ASST Spedali of Brescia and Politecnico di Milano’s Design Department, the study aims to clarify FCs' identity and role vis-à-vis Family Counseling Services; identify barriers and facilitators for integrating third-sector organizations and volunteers into service delivery; and explore strategies fostering effective inter-professional collaboration. The research employed a multi-phase methodology comprising regulatory framework analysis, international case study evaluation, and a comprehensive literature review on family-oriented care models. Additionally, twelve semi-structured interviews were carried out with key stakeholders—including FC volunteers, managers, and professionals—to understand operational challenges and opportunities. Findings were validated through three participatory workshops, cultivating collective reflexivity and strategic insights for FC development. Results The research highlighted key barriers, such as ambiguous territorial positioning, resource limitations, and resistance to innovative approaches. It also identified facilitating elements, including complementary and adaptive strategies effectively addressing diverse family needs. A two-year pilot (2020–2022) underscored that clear regulatory frameworks and active family engagement can position FCs as vital components of integrated care systems, significantly enhancing continuity and effectiveness of service co-delivery. Implications This study provides essential insights for refining and scaling family-centered co-production models, establishing FCs as integral to Italy's future health and social policy landscape. By fostering a “think-family” and community-based welfare perspective, FCs demonstrate potential for sustainably addressing complex family dynamics, thus advancing integrated care discourses within evolving health and social service systems.