Strain On Mater Dei Was ‘Not Unforeseeable,’ Doctors Warn As Worries Raised Over Infrastructure
The Malta Association of Public Health Medicine (MAPHM) has issued an urgent call for comprehensive infrastructure planning amid an escalating healthcare crisis, caused by the unprecedented number of heat-related hospital admissions.
“This crisis was not unforeseeable, caused by a combination of the heatwave, and ongoing power cuts. Climate change experts have warned that it is possible that heatwaves will keep on coming more frequently and at higher intensities.”
This influx has pushed the hospital’s emergency department beyond its limits, forcing non-urgent operations to be suspended indefinitely.
“We’re grateful for the hard work of the health workers who are doing everything they can during this tough time.”
MAPHM pointed out that the current crisis could have been anticipated. It was caused by a mix of the recent heatwave and ongoing power outages.
With the population growing and climate change possibly leading to more frequent and intense heatwaves, Malta’s essential services are likely to be under even more strain.
The MAPHM statement expressed doubts about the success of Enemalta’s plan to make sure the island always has a reliable power supply and have backup plans ready. As it stands, health, energy, and transportation have all become pressing issues. There have even been a few problems with the water supply.
“We need to get ready for the effects of climate change and more people living here by considering all areas. We can’t just focus on economic growth at the expense of people’s health and well-being,”
MAPHM emphasised the need to prepare for the impact of climate change and population growth. This means we need well-thought-out plans that cover everything from health and energy, to buildings and the environment, to transportation and social services.
As Malta deals with this crisis, what is your take on making the life quality better?