Call 1400: National 24/7 Helpline Launched For Urgent Non-Emergency Care
A new national service will be available 24/7 and is aimed at patients who require urgent but non-emergency medical assistance.
By calling this number, they will be guided on where to receive the best care, as close to home and as quickly as possible.
Helpline number 1400 was announced by Minister for Health and Active Ageing, Jo Etienne Abela.
It was explained that the first phase of this project began earlier this year, with hospital professionals referring patients to private hospitals, allowing them to be treated more quickly. In the second phase, family doctors began using the number to receive guidance on the best referrals for their patients.
Now, in this third phase, people aged between 16 and 69 can use the 1400 helpline to receive a diagnosis from professionals and be directed to the most appropriate care.
If a person calls the 1400 helpline and it turns out to be an emergency, the call will still be redirected to the Emergency Department.
Photo credit: Alan Saliba
Minister Jo Etienne Abela said that this launch marks the start of the third phase of the project. He explained that around 50 people a day who would normally visit the Emergency Department can now be treated at private hospitals, with the cost covered by the Government.
“This is a measure we’ve been working on for the past few months. We’ve always insisted that it’s important to pool our resources to ensure patients receive timely and safe treatment,” said Minister Abela.
He went on to say that this project is proof of the Government’s commitment to prioritising patient health, while also ensuring that those in urgent need of care wait less. Meanwhile, individuals in emergency or life-threatening situations will receive more focused treatment.
“I want to thank all the professionals who worked tirelessly to make this platform available to our citizens today. The Government will continue working to provide a safe and efficient service, one that not only improves the care offered but also enhances the patient’s quality of life,” Minister Jo Etienne Abela concluded.
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