Prime Minister Joseph Muscat today met with the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Steward Healthcare Ralph De La Torre where he expressed his belief that the relationship will bring about “excellent results” in Malta’s healthcare.

He thanked key stakeholders such as the Medical Association of Malta and he Midwives’ Association for meeting with Steward while understanding their concerns.

In December 2017, it was revealed that Steward Healthcare would be taking over the 30 year concession from Vitals Global Healthcare for the operating and maintaining of Karen Grech Hospital, St Luke’s Hospital and Gozo General hospital. The initial news about Vitals being awarded the concession stirred controversy for, among other reasons, not having any track record in the medical history. The 30-year concession was abruptly sold to Steward Healthcare just after two years for an undisclosed fee.

De La Torre remarked that they would be providing a transparent service adding that Malta’s skilled Labour force is unparalleled.

He remarked that the PPP system with government would be a “great experience” for the healthcare company which runs 40 hospitals across the US.

Muscat described his wish for the project to proceed at a more accelerated pace, especially with regard Bart’s medical school, what he called a “cornerstone” of the whole project.

The prime minister took no questions at this event.