would appreciate suggestions of type(s) of medical insurance coverage while in Italy for 9 days and how to purchase: insurance company, travel agency. John
Check www.insuremytrip.com. There you can compare policies from a variety of companies so you can buy just the coverage you need without paying for things you don't.
Yes, we have used "Insure My Trip" also. We have used American Express Medical Insurance too (800) 437-9209. It is very reasonable. You call them up two weeks before you are leaving on your trip. Your insurance starts when you phone them. That is to enable you to receive your ID cards and paperwork. Then after you return from your trip, you call and cancel the coverage. It is very reasonably priced. We had to make two medical claims, while in Australia. We were immediately reimbursed.
Don't forget to check with your employer if you have group medical coverage thru them. Most Blue Cross/Shield partners (but not all) cover medical costs incurred while out of the country, but you will have to do the paperwork for the claim; i.e. no electronic filing.
Get quotes, check out/compare policies/coverage thru many of the options at Squaremouth.com. Don't forget to get good repatriation coverage, in case you need to be rushed home for more hospitalization. A friend was really glad she had this after a nasty accident in India. Many companies cover pre-existing conditions if you buy a policy within 15 days of your 1st travel purchase; i.e., usually your flight tickets.