Malta’s Health Helpline Surges with Over 10,000 Calls in Five Months

VALLETTA, Malta — Malta’s health helpline, number 1400, has received over 10,000 calls in just over five months, since Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela shared the service on social media.

The helpline has directed 2,084 calls to telemedicine services, 3,354 to Mater Dei Hospital, 3,747 to health centers, and 2,326 to private clinics. This service is designed to direct patients needing urgent but non-emergency medical assistance to appropriate care close to their homes quickly.

Minister Abela emphasized the importance of the helpline in a recent Facebook post, encouraging residents to utilize the resource for non-critical health inquiries. “It’s essential to have a service where people can find the help they need without overwhelming emergency services,” Abela stated.

The rise in calls reflects an increased awareness of the helpline among residents. The goal is to alleviate the burden on emergency departments while ensuring that patients receive timely care.

Individuals are encouraged to utilize the helpline when they require medical advice or assistance that does not constitute an emergency. The service remains free and available to all residents.