Malta launches first Digital Health and Health Data Strategy

The Ministry for Health and Active Ageing has launched for public consultation the first Digital Health and Health Data Strategy, which symbolises a historic step in the transformation of the health sector in Malta. “This strategy establishes a clear vision for a patient-centred, digitally enabled, and innovation and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven health system”, stated Minister for Health and Active Ageing Jo Etienne Abela. During the press conference, it was explained how this strategy focuses on three main pillars. Data, Digital Transformation and AI, to improve care, simplify operations, and accelerate technological advances. It was stated how this strategy is aligned with the National Health Systems Strategy 2023–2030, National Digital Strategy, National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence and with European initiatives such as the European Health Data Space, all of which continue with the vision of the World Health Organization (WHO). Minister Jo Etienne Abela said that this strategy has a number of key objectives that help to enhance the experience of citizens through digital solutions by exploiting AI and improving clinical decision-making, strengthening digital tools for health professionals, ensuring continuity of care through connected systems, and improving public health through advanced technology. He explained that to achieve these goals, the strategy includes 28 key actions, including the expansion of the myHealth portal, the design of a national platform for ePrescriptions and eDispensing, strengthening telemedicine services, introducing a single Electronic Patient Records system in every national health facility, creating a national platform for Electronic Health Records with secure data exchange, as well as strengthening participation in European health networks. "This strategy is part of the government's vision Malta Vision 2050 where it represents a strong commitment to building a more intelligent, resilient and patient-focused health ecosystem. Through collaboration, sound governance and continuous investment, Malta is placing itself at the forefront of the digital transformation of health", concluded Dr Abela.