In Lombardy, a significant step forward in the fight against fibromyalgia. FibronetCare has been launched, the first regional network dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and support of patients with fibromyalgia syndrome.
The Diagnostic Delay Challenge
Fibromyalgia affects roughly 2 to 2.5% of the Italian population, despite how widespread it is. The bigger issue is the diagnostic delay. Diagnosis can take up to eight years—a period marked by physical and psychological suffering that deeply affects not only the patient but also family life and work.
It is also important to note that, although in about 20% of cases the condition begins in adolescence, diagnosis often comes only after many years, typically between ages 30 and 55, when symptoms have become chronic and disabling.
The Lombardy Response
By adopting FibronetCare, Lombardy has demonstrated a clear commitment to addressing patients’ needs. The initiative aims to integrate technology, specialized care, and continuous patient management.
FibronetCare was unveiled on January 22, 2026, at the Hyatt Centric Milan Central. The event marked an important opportunity for dialogue among health institutions, clinicians, associations, and patients.
The initiative is led and coordinated by Dr. Oscar Epis of Niguarda Hospital, supported by Dr. Roberto Gorla from ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia. The network brings together specialists from several of Lombardy’s leading IRCCS research hospitals.
During the event, speakers from major fibromyalgia-focused associations took the stage, including CFU, AISF ODV, ALOMAR, and Libellula Libera.
The therapeutic approach promoted by the Lombardy network rests on the bio-psycho-social model, which posits that biological, psychological, and social factors interact to affect a person’s overall well-being. The treatment strategy is therefore tailored to the individual, combining targeted pharmacologic therapies, such as antidepressants and anticonvulsants, with regular exercise, psychological support, and complementary medicine techniques.
The Project
FibronetCare rests on a coordinated network of regional rheumatology centers and a free application, available on Google Play and the App Store, that lets already-diagnosed patients connect directly with their designated center.
Through the platform, users can register, choose their healthcare facility, and fill out symptom self-assessments. The assessment forms are then shared with clinicians to facilitate the creation of personalized treatment pathways.
The app also provides support services such as “ask the expert” and “talk to a psychologist,” recognizing the value of a multidisciplinary approach to the disease.
FibronetCare also invests in training healthcare staff, a key step in shortening the time to recognize the condition and overcoming the stigma that still surrounds fibromyalgia.
The network’s future prospects include expanding available services and strengthening clinical research, aiming to turn a diagnosis often reached by exclusion into a structured, timely, and widely recognized pathway.
The Mission
Improving the quality of life for fibromyalgia patients is the core aim of FibronetCare. The initiative’s commitment extends beyond healthcare; the project seeks to restore to affected individuals a more dignified life, reduce the risk of disability, and curb the social and economic costs of the condition.
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