HON DR JO-ETIENNE ABELA, MINISTER FOR HEALTH AND ACTIVE AGEING SHARES MALTA´S VISION FOR THE FURURE
Nestled at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, Malta has long been recognized for its contributions to the medical field, a tradition that Minister for Health and Active Ageing, Hon. Jo-Etienne Abela, is keen to advance. “Malta has always been at the cutting edge of medicine”, Minister Abela explains, tracing the lineage of Malta’s medical expertise back to the establishment of its first school of anatomy and medicine in the 1700s.
Today, the island nation is making significant strides in healthcare, drawing on its deep-rooted medical heritage and strategic geographic position. Malta’s healthcare system mirrors the esteemed British model, focusing on comprehensive, community-based care that meets the demands of an increasing and aging population. “Our main hospital is expanding its emergency services, intensive care, and cardiology units to meet the needs of our citizens, with a particular focus on accommodating our older population”, Minister Abela states, highlighting the resilience and robustness of the system even in times of global crises.
Technology and innovation play crucial roles in Malta’s healthcare strategy. Minister Abela discusses ambitious plans to modernize and streamline healthcare delivery through digital solutions. “We are moving towards a paperless healthcare system where information flows seamlessly between our main hospital, primary care facilities, and private sector entities, ensuring comprehensive patient care across the board,” he notes. This integration extends to embracing telemedicine and other digital health platforms that support preventive care and manage chronic conditions more effectively.
In response to the global rise in mental health concerns, Malta is also enhancing its psychiatric services. “The importance of mental health has come to the forefront following the pandemic. We are expanding facilities at our acute hospitals to address acute psychiatric conditions and revamping older institutions to better serve long-term mental health needs”. explains Minister Abela.
The Maltese government is not just focusing on infrastructure but is also revolutionizing its approach to public health. Initiatives aimed at tackling obesity and promoting overall well-being are underway. “Our obesity strategy is crucial, as roughly one in five of our population is affected. This involves a multifaceted approach, including revamping primary care and launching targeted public health campaigns”, says Minister Abela. The strategy is part of a broader effort to shift from treatment to prevention, with programs designed to educate the public on maintaining healthy lifestyles to prevent conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
Minister Abela also highlights Malta’s role as a hub for medical education and international healthcare cooperation. With its strategic location and English-speaking, highly-trained medical professionals, Malta is an ideal venue for medical conferences, training, and examinations. “We are poised to be a leading center for healthcare excellence, drawing on our historical strengths and modern innovations”, he asserts.
Wrapping up, Minister Abela extends an invitation to international investors and healthcare professionals. “Malta offers a unique blend of historical prowess and strategic advantage, bolstered by a pro-business government that supports healthcare innovation and international collaborations”, he concludes.
Malta’s commitment to advancing healthcare, rooted in its rich history and supported by strategic innovation, positions the island as a promising locale for investment and a leader in global health initiatives. As Minister Abela suggests, the future of healthcare in Malta is not just about enhancing services but transforming them to meet the challenges of the 21st century, making Malta a beacon of medical excellence and innovation.