Mater Dei Will Outsource Emergency Services From Three Private Hospitals To Manage Demand
The government has struck a deal with three private hospitals, outsourcing their emergency services to in a bid to reduce waiting times.
Health Minister Jo Eitienne Abela announced the news this evening, saying that with this partnership, patients with medical and surgical diagnoses will receive care at private hospitals, with the government covering the costs.
Patients with non-complicated conditions will receive the necessary services, including surgeries, in the private sector.
He emphasised that this initiative will complement the services provided by Mater Dei Hospital and aims to allow the public hospital to focus on serious cases, including those related to seasonal illnesses, during the winter months.
Abela explained that this is the first phase of the agreement, with the Emergency Department at Mater Dei Hospital directing the transfers. He added that a second phase will follow later, introducing a new referral system for various emergency services in the country.
The Minister highlighted that on the first day of this collaboration, two successful surgical interventions were already performed at one of these private hospitals.
“This new system of collaboration between the government and the private sector is expected to enhance the efficiency of emergency services while delivering excellent care,” Abela concluded.
Do you think this will help the public health system deal with the demand for care?