Terzo settore, salute e orientamento al disagio: una nuova forma tipologica?

The article addresses the topic of the contribution provided by third sector entities in the provision of healthcare services. This is a theme present in scientific literature, yet little attention has been paid to the role these entities play in meeting the healthcare needs of individuals in marginalized, impoverished, and generally socioeconomically and relationally disadvantaged conditions. After analyzing the role of the third sector in different healthcare systems, the article focuses on the Italian case, first estimating the contribution of these entities within the National Health Service, and then concentrating on civil society actors specialized in the provision of socio-healthcare and healthcare services with a specific focus on hardship.