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The Minister for Health and Active Ageing Jo Etienne Abela announced that with an investment of €6 million, 4,000 people will benefit from an extension of access to the medicine Entresto (sacubitril/valsartan) in the Government formulary, as part of an ongoing commitment to improve care for patients living with heart failure. This chronic condition affects thousands of people and has a significant impact on their quality of life. It was stated that recent medical advances are allowing more effective treatments that reduce the risk of hospital admissions and improve symptoms. Entresto is a modern therapy used successfully in several countries, especially for patients who do not respond sufficiently to standard treatments. The drug Entresto can be used in adults, adolescents and children aged one year and over who suffer from chronic heart failure. It is available in three different doses to tailor the treatment to the patient's needs. Minister Jo Etienne Abela said that this initiative builds on other steps that have already been taken, including the introduction of medicines such as empagliflozin (Jardiance), and forms part of a vision that places the patient at the centre of the health service, with an emphasis on treatments based on scientific evidence. Dr Abela explained how this investment reflects a commitment to modern and sustainable care. He reiterated how implementation is expected to begin in the coming days in a gradual and monitored manner, to ensure continuity of care. He said, how the introduction will be done through a structured process according to the National Formulary, with clear eligibility criteria and prescription protocols to ensure safe and fair use. The procurement process is in the final stages. "This measure helps to protect patients with heart problems. This continues to strengthen a health system that offers quality, equity and hope to all patients. The Government is committed to continuing to offer the best care to Gozitan and Maltese patients so that we can continue to safeguard the health and sustainability of our systems", concluded Minister Abela. Photo: MHA