Major Reforms Unveiled For Malta’s Mental Health Care
In a recent press conference, Minister for Health and Active Aging Jo Etienne Abela unveiled an extensive reform plan for mental health care in Malta. This ambitious initiative, set to unfold over three phases, aims to modernise the mental health care system, reduce stigma associated with institutionalisation, and improve patient outcomes through significant infrastructure investments and strategic relocations.
The reform reflects a commitment to align with expert advice and enhance the overall quality of mental health services in the country.
The Minister explained that discussions have been ongoing with stakeholders in the mental health care sector, including unions representing workers in our country, with these discussions reaching their peak during the week dedicated to mental health awareness.
Minister Abela announced that over the next three years, the phasing out of Mount Carmel Hospital will take place. This aims to further reduce the stigma associated with institutionalisation. He also explained that in the coming weeks, in agreement with the private sector, around 120 stable patients will be relocated to community homes. Government employees will relocate with their patients to these new sites.
The second phase of the reform will see the acute psychiatric service relocated to Mater Dei Hospital, where there will be a psychiatric ward capable of accommodating about 30 patients.
The final phase of this reform will be the introduction of an Acute Psychiatric Unit, with an investment of around €33 million. This will be a state-of-the-art facility capable of accommodating 128 patients at Mater Dei Hospital. Minister Abela explained that this is a care model already in place at Gozo General Hospital, where all types of illness are treated in one hospital, without distinction. He added that the Foundation for Medical Services (FMS) is in an advanced process to apply for the construction of this Unit, which is expected to take about four years to complete.
“The Government recognises and agrees with the advice of experts in the field of mental health and is determined to bring about radical change in the infrastructure and services for mental health care. We are committed to offering modern care in a welcoming and healthy environment,” concluded Minister Jo Etienne Abela.
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