Verified Facts
Malta's healthcare system is well-regarded, offering a high standard of medical care to its residents and visitors, with both public and private options available.
Quick Facts
Healthcare Overview
Malta's healthcare system is primarily funded through the government, with a universal healthcare system that provides comprehensive medical care to all residents. The public healthcare system is generally of high quality, with well-equipped hospitals and a wide range of medical specialties available. Private healthcare options are also available, and many Maltese residents opt for private health insurance to supplement their public coverage. In urban areas, access to healthcare is generally excellent, with many hospitals and clinics located in or near the capital city of Valletta. However, in rural areas, access to healthcare may be more limited, with fewer hospitals and clinics available.
The quality of care in Malta is generally high, with many medical professionals trained in the UK or other European countries. Malta is also a popular destination for medical tourism, with many foreigners traveling to the country for medical procedures such as orthopedic surgery, cosmetic surgery, and fertility treatments. The country's high standard of healthcare, combined with its warm climate and beautiful scenery, make it an attractive destination for those seeking medical care.
Malta's healthcare system is also well-integrated with the European Union's healthcare system, making it easy for EU residents to access medical care in the country. Non-EU residents, on the other hand, may need to purchase private health insurance or pay out-of-pocket for medical care.
Hospitals & Clinics
| Facility | Location | Type | Specialties | English-Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mater Dei Hospital | Msida | Public | General hospital with all specialties | Yes |
| St. James Hospital | Sliema | Private | General hospital with all specialties | Yes |
| St. Philip's Hospital | Msida | Private | General hospital with all specialties | Yes |
| Gozo General Hospital | Victoria, Gozo | Public | General hospital with limited specialties | Yes |
| Karin Grech Hospital | Pieta | Private | Rehabilitation hospital | Yes |
| Sir Paul Boffa Hospital | Floriana | Public | Specialist hospital for orthopedic and rehabilitation care | Yes |
Health Insurance
- Private health insurance is recommended for all residents and visitors, as it can provide additional coverage and flexibility in accessing medical care.
- Local insurance options are available, including companies such as Atlas Insurance and Laferla Insurance.
- Coverage for expats is available, with many insurance companies offering policies specifically designed for foreigners living in Malta.
- Costs for health insurance vary depending on the provider and the level of coverage, but expect to pay around 500-1000 EUR per year for a basic policy.
- EU residents may be eligible for free or reduced-cost medical care under the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) scheme.
Pharmacies & Medications
- Medications are widely available in Malta, with many pharmacies located throughout the country.
- Prescription requirements vary depending on the medication, but many common medications are available over-the-counter.
- Common brands such as GlaxoSmithKline and Pfizer are widely available, as well as generic options.
- Costs for medications vary depending on the type and brand, but expect to pay around 5-10 EUR for a prescription medication.
Vaccinations & Health Risks
- Required vaccinations for travel to Malta include Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B.
- Recommended vaccinations include Influenza and Pneumococcal.
- Endemic diseases in Malta include Lyme disease and Leishmaniasis, which are spread by ticks and sand flies.
- Water safety is generally good in Malta, with tap water safe to drink.
- Food safety is also generally good, with a low risk of foodborne illness.
Medical Tourism
- Malta is a popular destination for medical tourism, with many foreigners traveling to the country for medical procedures such as orthopedic surgery and cosmetic surgery.
- Accredited hospitals include Mater Dei Hospital and St. James Hospital.
- Cost savings can be significant, with many medical procedures costing 50-75% less than in other European countries.
- Popular procedures include fertility treatments and dental implants.
Emergency Procedures
- In the event of an emergency, dial 112 to reach the emergency services.
- Ambulance reliability is generally good, with many ambulances equipped with modern medical equipment.
- Nearest hospitals can be found using a mapping app or by asking a local for directions.
- Insurance claims can be made through the hospital or insurance provider, and many hospitals have dedicated staff to assist with the claims process.
- It is recommended to have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or private health insurance to cover any medical expenses.