The government said on Sunday that preparations are underway to introduce ten cancer medications into the government formulary.

This would mean that people in need of such medication would be able to receive it free of charge.

These, it said, are the first ten of over 40 such medications.

"This is part of the transitional shift in which the government will assume the cost of cancer medication from the Malta Community Chest Fund, ensuring that patients receive treatment as a right, not through charity," the government said. Until this change is implemented fully, patients will continue to receive support from the Malta Community Chest Fund, government said.

The first announcement of a shift in responsibilities regarding this medication came last November, in a press statement by President Myriam Spiteri Debono and Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela. At that time, it was said that discussions were ongoing between the Malta Community Chest Fund and the Health Ministry to set up a new mechanism regarding cancer care. The Health minister had said in Parliament that responsibility for the funding of cancer medication is the subject of talks between the MCCF and the Health Ministry.

It seems things are moving along.

Given that healthcare is free in Malta, it makes absolute sense for this handover to be made. Patients in need of such medications should not have to resort to charity due to the high cost that some of the medications could have, and so it is good that State support for such health issues is being expanded in this way.

The Malta Community Chest Fund is a fantastic initiative which will continue to support people in need in other ways of course, and this move means that it will free up funds in the future for the organisation to help people who face other troubling scenarios, such as those who require social assistance. The generosity of the people in Malta when it comes to supporting those in need has helped many people through the toughest of times, and shows how together a difference can be made. We are sure that such support to the organisations that give their all to help others will continue.

The announcement regarding the ten medications was made while the Prime Minister was in London, visiting Maltese patients receiving medical treatment, and the supporting organisations that are there. Among others, he visited the accommodation provided by Puttinu Cares, and one cannot stress enough the important role that Puttinu Cares plays in helping those in need of treatment in London, by offering accommodation not only to patients, but also loved ones who will provide moral support.

New Puttinu Cares apartments being constructed in London, it was announced, would mean that around 80% of patients and accompanying relatives who need accommodation will be able to stay while the patient is receiving treatment in the UK. The building was funded through public donations and government support, it was said, showing yet again how public support can make a difference in peoples' lives.