The Karl Vella Foundation, in collaboration with the Treatment Abroad Unit, has launched two guidebooks to support patients who need to travel abroad for medical treatment and their families.

The publications bring together practical information and details of available support services, helping patients and their loved ones better prepare for what can be a challenging period in their lives.

The guidebooks were launched by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health Ian Borg, Minister for Inclusion and Volunteering Julia Farrugia and Minister for Social Policy and the Family Michael Falzon.

The initiative combines the experience of the voluntary sector with that of the public healthcare service. Travelling abroad for treatment can bring emotional, psychological, practical and social challenges, not only for patients but also for accompanying relatives and family members who remain in Malta. The guides address these realities by helping families understand what to expect, whom to contact and where to seek assistance.

Through its Because You Matter service, the Karl Vella Foundation provides free psychological and emotional support to patients, donors and caregivers throughout their journey abroad for medical treatment. This support is also extended to family members who remain in Malta and continues after patients return home.

The guide covering the United Kingdom includes information about the Treatment Abroad Unit, the Malta High Commission, non-governmental organisations and pastoral support, alongside practical details about accommodation and other services.

The publications also feature the experiences of families who have already gone through the process, offering practical advice and messages of encouragement to help others facing similar circumstances.

Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg said that while medical treatment is often the first consideration when discussing healthcare, the Government would continue working to ensure access to the best possible treatment, both in Malta and abroad.

“However, care goes beyond the medical aspect. Personal attention, peace of mind and the support provided to patients and their families are equally important,” he said.

Dr Borg also highlighted the importance of cooperation between Maltese organisations and public entities, both governmental and non-governmental, in supporting people during difficult periods.

“This joint effort reflects the solidarity that distinguishes our people and, above all, helps ensure that no one feels alone on this journey,” he added.

Minister Julia Farrugia said the work of the Karl Vella Foundation demonstrates how voluntary organisations can support people when they need assistance most.

She explained that her ministry was providing financial support to help make the project possible and ensure that patients and their families receive practical assistance.

“The experiences of people who have already gone through this journey are extremely valuable to families facing it for the first time,” she said. “Through this collaboration, those experiences are being transformed into accessible information and support that can make a difference during a difficult period in their lives.”

Minister Michael Falzon praised organisations that work to support people’s wellbeing, particularly those facing challenges associated with illness.

“Offering assistance, hope and meaningful support makes a significant difference, both for patients and for the family members who travel with them. This is the kind of society we want to live in,” he said.

Claire Chircop, speaking on behalf of the Karl Vella Foundation, said that when someone needs to travel abroad for medical treatment, the impact is felt by the entire family, not just the patient.

She explained that the journey involves more than medical challenges, often bringing emotional, psychological and practical difficulties for everyone involved.

The guidebooks were developed to provide patients and their families with clear, accessible information and practical guidance, helping them feel better prepared and supported throughout the process.

By bringing together essential information, available services and sources of emotional support, the foundation hopes to reduce some of the uncertainty families experience during these difficult times.

“Above all, this initiative reflects our commitment to ensuring that patients and their loved ones know they are not alone, and that support is available before, during and after treatment abroad,” Chircop said.