The Operating Department at the Gozo General Hospital which has undergone a project of major restructuring, was inaugurated this afternoon by the Prime Minister Dr Lawrence Gonzi.

In a speech for the occasion by the Minister for Gozo, Giovanna Debono, she explained that the new operating theatres are part of a wider project, which includes the radiology department, with a total investment of €3.8 million, 85% of which was from the European Regional Development Fund, with the remaining 15% being paid by the Government.

The Minister said that the hospital, which had functioned in Gozo for almost 40 years, had recently undergone major restructuring as well as mainenance.

These necesary works for the project included the removal of asbestos ceilings, the building of new walls and installation of window, as well as the installation of new services. A new digital system to ensure results are accessible to doctors and consultants was installed at the hospital and connected with the Mater Dei Hospital. This was carried out at a cost of €1.5 million, resulting in an improved service and benefiting Gozitan patients who would, in some circumstances have had to travel to Malta.

The completed project has also seen the purchase of new equipment, such as a CT scanner and mammogram machine, which reduces the need to have Gozitan patients referred to Malta for treatment, the Minister said.

“Gozo Hospital can also now offer better services and facilities and more modern equipment to the medical team and employees.” The Minister continued by thanking everyone involved for their assitance and collaboration during the works at the hospital, which had been able to carry on and provide normal hospital services.

A tender is ongoing for a unit to be equipped to be able to provide chemotherapy services in Gozo. In addition, the Minister said “a Bone Mineral Density Unit is also to be introduced shortly.”

During the inauguration the Prime Minister said that the health of both Maltese and Gozitans is a Government priority. He said that while other countries have decreased their Healthcare budget, Malta has increased its by €465 million.

The PN Leader also said that EU funding had aided projects in Malta and Gozo, which a PN Government would aim to continue, particularly in the field of healthcare.

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