Work on a new Radiology Section at Gozo is now underway, this new project will cost €3.2 million, 85 percent of which will be financed by the European Regional Development Fund. Works carried out so far include the coating of the floor and walls with a laminated lead protective layer, which is of course a must in radiological units.

Another important task will be the complete removal of the old roof, which is partly made from asbestos, this will involve coordinated procedures under international rules relating to health in relation to the treatment of this hazardous material. Structural changes are also planned to increase the functional space available for the new Radiology Section.

Meanwhile, work has also started on the installation of new electricity and water systems, plus other essential services such as Medical Gases, Nurse Call System, Fire Alarm System, Air-Conditioning System and Data Network System.

An important addition will be the provision of a new Spiral CT Scanning Section (Cat Scan) and a Digital Mammography Section, both of which are currently only available in Malta. The new Digital Mammography Section will enable Gozitan women to participate in the National Breastscreening Programme without the need to travel to Malta. The new equipment will operate digitally and therefore all the images produced will be readily accessible by computer.

Gozo Minister, Giovanna Debono, explained how this project was proposed in light of the 2007-2013 national strategy to address accessibility to health services and improve the quality of life within the island of Gozo.

The Minister added that this project will strengthen the health service in Gozo, especially for the seriously or chronically ill, elderly or disabled Gozitan residents. She also said that for those patients which still require treatment in Malta, the Ministry for Gozo is negotiating the purchase of two new ambulances from national funds which will offer more comfort than the existing ones.

The new Radiology Section at Gozo General Hospital is expected to start operating by the end of this year.

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