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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Malta | Expat Exchange
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St. Julian's, Malta

15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Malta

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 02, 2024

Summary: The quality of medical care in Malta is generally considered to be good, with many medical professionals trained in the United States and Europe. Emergency services are generally reliable and efficient, with ambulances responding quickly to calls. To call for an ambulance in Malta, you can dial 112 or 999.

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

How are healthcare services Malta?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Malta, they replied:

"Malta offers a comprehensive range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and mental health services. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all Maltese citizens and permanent residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with modern facilities and well-trained staff. Foreign residents are also eligible for free public healthcare, provided they have a valid residence permit. Expats in Malta can use the public healthcare system by registering with the Department of Health and obtaining a health card. This card allows them to access the same services as Maltese citizens, including free doctor visits and hospital care," commented one expat who moved to Malta.

What are medical services in Malta like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Malta, they replied:

"Malta offers a wide range of medical services, including general practitioners, specialists, hospitals, and pharmacies. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a number of public and private hospitals and clinics providing quality medical care. The Maltese government also provides free healthcare to all citizens and residents, including access to primary care, specialist care, and hospital services. In addition, Malta has a number of private health insurance companies that offer coverage for medical services," said one expat.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Malta?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Malta are generally considered to be quite affordable. The Maltese government provides free healthcare to all citizens and permanent residents, and private health insurance is also available for those who wish to purchase it. Private health insurance plans typically cover a wide range of services, including hospitalization, doctor visits, and prescription drugs. In addition, the cost of medical care in Malta is generally lower than in other European countries," commented one expat who moved to Malta.

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What are emergency services like in Malta?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Malta wrote:

"Emergency services in Malta are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, the Maltese public can call 112 for an ambulance. This number is free of charge and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Maltese ambulance service is well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical personnel. In addition, the Maltese government has invested in a fleet of helicopters to provide emergency medical services in remote areas," remarked one expat living in Malta.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Malta's capital city, Valletta, is home to a wide variety of medical specialists, including general practitioners, dentists, optometrists, and specialists in fields such as cardiology, neurology, and oncology. The nearby towns of Sliema and St. Julian's also offer a wide range of medical specialists, as do the towns of Birkirkara and Mosta. Additionally, the island of Gozo is home to a number of medical specialists, including general practitioners, dentists, and specialists in fields such as dermatology, endocrinology, and gastroenterology," said one expat living in Malta.

Are common prescription medications available in Malta?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Malta. Pharmacies in Malta are well-stocked with a wide range of medications, including both generic and brand-name drugs. Many of the medications available in Malta are the same as those available in other European countries. In addition, some medications that are not available in other countries may be available in Malta. Patients in Malta can also access medications through the government-funded National Health Service," commented one expat living in Malta.

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Malta?

"Malta offers a high standard of medical care and facilities. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a range of public and private hospitals and clinics providing quality medical services. The Maltese government is committed to providing free healthcare to all citizens, and the country has a high doctor-to-patient ratio. The medical staff in Malta are highly trained and experienced, and the country is well-equipped with the latest medical technology," said one expat living in Malta.

As a foreigner living in Malta, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Malta, you will have access to public healthcare. The Maltese healthcare system is considered to be one of the best in Europe, with a wide range of services available to both citizens and non-citizens. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and provides free or low-cost medical care to all residents. The quality of care is generally high, with a wide range of specialists and modern facilities. The public healthcare system also offers a range of preventive services, such as vaccinations and health screenings," remarked one expat living in Malta.

What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in Malta if they have access to public healthcare in Malta. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Malta. The government has implemented a number of measures to ensure the safety of healthcare workers and patients, including the introduction of telemedicine services, the provision of personal protective equipment, and the implementation of strict social distancing protocols. The healthcare system has also been bolstered by the deployment of additional medical personnel and the provision of additional resources. Despite these measures, the pandemic has put a strain on the healthcare system, with long waiting times for appointments and a backlog of cases. However, the healthcare system in Malta has been praised for its response to the pandemic, with the government providing additional resources and support to ensure that the healthcare system is able to cope with the increased demand," said an expat in Malta.

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Malta?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in Malta about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"There are many hospitals in Malta. Choose the one that best fits your needs. Proximity to your home should be considered but also the comfort and professionalism of the staff. Your doctor will most likely be able to go to any hospital but again it helps if the hospital is also close the doctor so they don't have an hour drive in traffic to get there when you need them," explained one expat living in Sliema.

"1. Make sure to research the healthcare system in Malta and find a doctor or midwife that you trust and feel comfortable with. 2. Consider joining a local expat group or forum to connect with other expats who have had babies in Malta and can provide advice and support. 3. Familiarize yourself with the maternity leave and childcare options available in Malta. 4. Take advantage of the many outdoor activities and attractions Malta has to offer, as it can be a great place to explore with a baby. 5. Make sure to take time for yourself and your partner to relax and enjoy the experience of having a baby in Malta," said one expat in Malta.

Are healthcare services good in Malta?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Malta. They wrote:

"Malta offers a comprehensive healthcare system, providing both public and private healthcare services. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens and residents. It includes a network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers, as well as a range of specialist services. Private healthcare services are also available, with a range of private hospitals and clinics offering a variety of treatments and services. In addition, Malta has a number of health insurance companies that offer coverage for medical expenses," wrote a person living in Malta.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

St. Julian's, Malta

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