Prime Minister Robert Abela, accompanied by the Minister for Gozo and Planning Clint Camilleri and the Minister for Health and Active Ageing Jo Etienne Abela, visited the Gozo General Hospital where an extensive investment programme is currently underway that is transforming and modernising healthcare in Gozo.
During this visit, the Prime Minister was able to see the main projects that have been completed in the last two years, including the installation of the new MRI system which has so far performed over 11,000 scans. Through this new MRI, waiting times have been drastically reduced at a national level as this service is also being provided to Maltese patients who choose to go to Gozo for the service. This year, a new CT scanner, a new 3D mammography machine, new Bi-PAP and CPAP machines and various advanced equipment have also been added to the Gozo General Hospital, as well as a temporary hyperbaric chamber until the permanent one is completed. These advances are evidence of how much the Government is investing in the health sector in Gozo while continuing to strengthen the vision of a more modern, integrated and patient-centred health system.
Several projects are currently underway at the General Hospital, including the renovation and expansion of the Cardio-Respiratory Unit, the expansion of the Outpatient Department which will add nine new clinics and the complete modernization of the hospital’s laboratory. These advances will increase the hospital’s capacity in terms of prevention, early diagnosis and specialized treatment.
Another crucial project that was explained to the Prime Minister is the new helipad, which will improve response times in emergency cases requiring immediate transfer to Mater Dei. In addition, the hospital will also have a new drone landing area. This will allow chemotherapy and other sensitive medicines to be delivered directly to Gozo without delay.
The Prime Minister thanked the entire team at the Gozo General Hospital and emphasised how the investments being made have one clear goal, that Gozitans are given the best health service in Gozo itself, without the need for trips to Malta for services that are now being provided locally. Prime Minister Robert Abela also noted a special ward for people who have lost babies (miscarriage ward) that was recently created, as in the past people who had lost babies were left in a ward with people who had just had a baby.
“What we are seeing here today is the best example of a Government that keeps its word and delivers. Gozo is receiving the largest investment in healthcare ever made, and this with respect for the dignity of patients and the professionals who work here. Our goal is that Gozitans are given the same quality of care as Maltese people, but closer to home”, stated Prime Minister Robert Abela.
Photo (OPM)
