Medical Help in Malta: A Complete Guide for Expats
New to Malta? Here is how to get medical help - from day one to long-term care.
Key takeaways
- Entitlement to public care depends on residency and social security status.
- Many expats use private GPs and private health insurance.
- A GP is the best first point of contact for new problems.
- Emergencies: call 112.
Are you entitled to public care?
Entitlement generally depends on your residency and social security contributions. EU citizens newly arrived may use their EHIC for necessary care during the transition. Non-EU residents should check their status and insurance requirements with official sources.
Finding a GP
- Public: Health Centres and Community Clinics.
- Private: clinics, pharmacy GP sessions, online consultations.
- Ask colleagues or neighbours which doctors they use.
Specialists
Public specialist care commonly requires referral. Private specialist arrangements vary; starting with a GP helps if you are unsure.
Insurance
Many employers offer private health insurance. Check what it covers - GP visits, specialists, hospital stays, excesses - and whether you pay and claim back.
Your first-month checklist
- Find a GP you can contact.
- Locate your nearest pharmacy and Health Centre.
- Save 112 in your phone.
- Organise prescriptions for regular medicines.
- Check your entitlement and insurance.
This information cannot diagnose your symptoms or replace individual medical advice. For a medical emergency in Malta, call 112.
Continue reading
Sources and references
Related guides
Health Centres in Malta: How Public GP Care Works
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