The Maltese healthcare system is well-respected and has been highly praised for its efficiency so much so that in 2000, the World Health Organisation placed it fifth in the global healthcare ranking index. Residents can choose between public and private care, however, with the former, they have to wait to have an appointment set, while they cannot select their preferred doctor. In this case, a private clinic is usually considered a better alternative.

What services do Private Healthcare Clinics in Malta provide?

The majority of private clinics in Malta and Gozo offer a vast spectrum of medical specialists and a battery of tests and examinations you can undertake. Below is a rundown of the main services provided.

• Outpatients'
• Radiology
• Day surgery
• Laboratory testing
• Stem cell harvesting
• Dentistry
• Opticians
• Dermatologists
• Endocrinologists
• Diagnostic ultrasounds
• Gynaecology and Obstetrics

What's more these type of clinics also provide cosmetic intervention and surgeries like depilation, breast implants, facelifts, tummy tucks or rhinoplasty.

Unlike public clinics and hospitals that generally set appointments exclusively in the mornings, private clinics' operating hours are much longer to the benefit of clients who work. Having said that, most also operate an emergency service outside normal opening hours for those who need medical attention urgently. Opening hours are usually displayed outside clinics, together with the name and contact details of specialists. Others have their own website filled with important and useful information, whereby you can also book an appointment online.

In need of more specialised clinics?

Whereas the general clinics mentioned above offer a number of services under one roof, locally you may also find specialised clinics that focus on a particular area of medicine. These can range from dental and allergy clinics to foot health clinics, physiotherapy centres and hair loss clinics to name just a few.

Dental private clinics are widely available across the island with many of these offering a number of services such as preventive dentistry, orthodontics, restorative dentistry, general oral surgery, as well as specialised surgery like cosmetic dentistry. With the aim to fulfil their clients' dream of acquiring a perfect smile, dentists also conduct teeth whitening, crowns and bridges, veneers and a number of other elements that will help restore and enhance their clients' oral appearance. Equipped with the latest dental equipment to assist the qualified team of dentists and dental surgeons, many also sport an on-site laboratory typically used for the production of prosthetic teeth amongst other things.

Other popular clinics are those that deal with allergies. As the number of people suffering from these has increased in the last decade, allergy tests have become prevalent. Typically, these consist of a skin test, whereby a weak liquid containing various causes of allergy is placed on the skin. The doctor will then check if there's an allergic reaction around the needle prick. Common allergies include pollen from plants, dander from cats, dogs and other animals, as well as allergies that derive from food such as nuts and milk. In addition, the specialist may also request that you have a blood test done to measure the number of antibodies in your blood to different food proteins.

In order to see a specialist, you must first give the centre a ring to book an appointment, however, in some instances, certain establishments may operate on a first come first served basis. In addition, where emergency cases are involved, the majority of specialists will be happy to fit you in before or after set appointments.

Perks of Private Healthcare

Wondering why should people choose to pay for something they can have for free? The benefits of private healthcare are many and a number of individuals prefer going down the private route mainly in order to gain access to instant, on-demand medical care. On the other hand, numerous businesses are increasingly opting for contracts with private clinics and specialists to cover their employees. Convenience plays an important role since you'll have a wider pool of specialists and experts to choose from, while in most cases you can select the date and time that is most convenient for you to set your appointment. Private healthcare also makes things easier for you if you need to set follow-up appointments or need to see another professional since you can schedule your meeting there and then without the need to wait to be put on a waiting list. But best of all, you'll be able to enjoy more individualised care.

What type of insurance cover is needed for private clinics in Malta?

Whereas the public healthcare system is funded by government taxation and therefore, all Maltese nationals and foreigners who permanently live on the island are entitled to use the public health system, patients need to fork out money for private medical services. Available to everyone, private clinics operate on a ‘pay-as-you-go' basis, which means that all you need to do is schedule your appointment, visit the doctor in the private clinic of your choice and pay for their services. However, private healthcare can be costly and as a result, some people opt for an insurance cover. Depending on your needs and budget, you must determine the best premium for you. If you're unsure of what this should be, visiting a local insurance company is a must. The majority offer standard cover, private hospital cover, international plans, whereas most also offer insurance plans to non-residents.