Implementation Challenges and Expectations on Family and Community Nurses in Italy: A Multicenter Qualitative Study

Background Family and community nurses (FCNs) play a crucial role in shifting healthcare from a hospital‐based to a community‐centered approach to care, addressing the needs of aging populations, chronic disease management, and preventive health. While the FCN model has been extensively studied in countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and Canada, it still remains an evolving approach in Italy, where its implementation varies due to regional governance and policy inconsistencies. Objective This study explores healthcare professionals’ perspectives on implementation challenges and expectations concerning FCN implementation. Methods A multicenter qualitative descriptive study was conducted across four local health authorities and one postbachelor program in the Veneto Region in Northern Italy. Semistructured online interviews were conducted with 49 participants, including FCNs, students, general practitioners, and district directors. Thematic analysis was performed using Braun and Clarke’s framework. Results Two key themes emerged: (1) Advancing the contribution of FCNs, highlighting expectations for their expanded role in preventive care, chronic disease management, and interprofessional collaboration, and (2) changing cultural and organizational settings, emphasizing challenges related to role ambiguity, professional recognition, and the necessity of structural support. Participants stressed the importance of FCNs in reducing hospital admissions and emergency visits, bridging care gaps, and fostering public health awareness. Conclusion Despite growing recognition of FCNs, challenges such as unclear role boundaries, resistance from healthcare professionals, and workforce shortages hinder their full implementation. Strengthening political support, raising public awareness, and establishing structured training programs are essential steps for the sustainable integration of FCNs in Italy. Further research is needed to assess long‐term impacts and optimize FCN models in diverse healthcare settings.