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Expat Exchange - Insider's Guide to the Health System in Malta
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Valletta, Malta


Insider's Guide to the Health System in Malta

By Betsy Burlingame

SJB Global
SJB Global

Summary: Learn about the health system in Malta: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in Malta.

Malta has a public healthcare system that is funded by the government and is free for all citizens and residents. The public healthcare system in Malta is called the Malta Health Service. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Malta, however, it is not used by many foreigners. Public hospitals in Malta are generally recommended for minor medical issues, but not for serious medical emergencies or major surgery.

Malta's Public Healthcare System

Malta's public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens and residents. The public healthcare system in Malta is called the Malta Health Service. It provides access to a wide range of medical services, including primary care, hospital care, specialist care, and mental health services. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Malta, however, it is not used by many foreigners. Public hospitals in Malta are generally recommended for minor medical issues, but not for serious medical emergencies or major surgery.

Malta's Private Healthcare System

Malta also has a private healthcare system, which is used primarily by expats and digital nomads. Private healthcare in Malta is more expensive than public healthcare, but it is generally of a higher quality. Private hospitals in Malta are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Expats typically use private hospitals for their medical care, as they are more likely to have access to the latest treatments and technologies.

Malta's Top Hospitals

Malta has a number of top hospitals, both public and private. Some of the most well-known hospitals in Malta include:

  • Mater Dei Hospital (public) in Msida
  • St. Luke's Hospital (public) in Gwardamangia
  • St. James Hospital (private) in Sliema
  • St. Thomas Hospital (private) in Swieqi
  • St. Anne's Hospital (private) in Birkirkara, which specializes in orthopedic surgery

Health Insurance Companies in Malta

The most popular private health insurers in Malta are Bupa Global, Cigna Global, and Allianz Care. These companies provide health insurance plans for expats and digital nomads. Expats typically use these companies for their medical care, as they are more likely to have access to the latest treatments and technologies.

Insider Tips from Expats in Malta: How to Navigate the Health System

"Malta offers a wide range of medical services, including general practitioners, specialists, hospitals, and pharmacies. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a number of public and private hospitals and clinics providing quality medical care. The Maltese government also provides free healthcare to all citizens and residents, including access to primary care, specialist care, and hospital services. In addition, Malta has a number of private health insurance companies that offer coverage for medical services," commented one member living in Malta.

"Malta offers a comprehensive range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and mental health services. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all Maltese citizens and permanent residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with modern facilities and well-trained staff. Foreign residents are also eligible for free public healthcare, provided they have a valid residence permit. Expats in Malta can use the public healthcare system by registering with the Department of Health and obtaining a health card. This card allows them to access the same services as Maltese citizens, including free doctor visits and hospital care," commented one member living in Malta.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global
SJB Global

Valletta, Malta

William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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