The crisis unfolding at the Emergency Department at Mater Dei Hospital is of great concern, SDPD-The Green Party said Saturday.  W

ADPD - The Green Party Chairperson, Sandra Gauci, said: It is certain, for example, that besides allegations regarding criminal acts, fraud and rampant corruption that are being exposed in court, much energy, time and money has been spent on the privatisation of the Gozo Hospital and St Luke's Hospital, without any positive results for the residents of Malta and Gozo.  Emphasis should be placed on health services such as primary health care, not 'medical tourism', a buzz phrase we hear from ministers from time to time.  Doctors, nurses and all health professionals seek to give medical assistance to people and not 'provide' a touristic product. 

We believe that community-based health services should be strengthened.  Doctors in private practice working in our communities should have every support.  This can be done in various ways, amongst which having doctors working in a team to help improve the provision of medical services in the community.  What is also necessary is granting doctors in private practice access to free public medical testing so that they are in a better position to help their patients. Pharmacies participating in the Pharmacy of Your Choice (POYC) should be given greater assistance in ensuring that doctors and paramedics give the best possible care. 

Investing in family doctors is extremely important.  Whilst the distinction between public and private care must be maintained, investing in medical services, including in family doctors, will help to reduce pressure on Mater Dei Hospital, she said.