Muscat labels health sector ‘semi-autonomous republic’

The government was still coming to terms with the way the health system works but it is clear that the system needs to undergo a thorough reform, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said.

During a meeting held this morning with the Chamber of Commerce, Muscat urged all stakeholders to take an active role in the discussions which will take place on improving the health system.

"We want all stakeholders to be on board when we will be holding consultations over the health system," Muscat said.

He pointed out that the health system reform must be built on three main pillars; free health services, free medicines and improving the services provided.

Describing the procurement of medicines as "inefficient," Muscat explained that in the on-going review on the health system, "new shortcomings are being discovered everyday."

Underlining the lack of coordination and cohesion in the health system, Muscat described it as a "semi-autonomous republic."

"Things have to change," Muscat stresses as he pointed out his dissatisfaction at the way the government procures medicines.

"We are still learning the ropes of the system, but one thing is sure, it needs a deep reform," the Prime Minister said, adding that the government would be involving the private sector.

Muscat mentioned the just-in-time procurement system, used by private pharmacies as one of the models the government could adopt to reform the medicine procurement system.

On his part, the Chamber of Commerce president, David Curmi pointed out that the chamber's members are heavily involved in the sector, especially in the distribution and manufacture of medicines and pharmacy owners.

He said that the Chamber has the necessary resources and expertise in the sector and expressed the Chamber's willingness to participate in the health reform discussions.