Parliamentary Secretary for Health Chris Fearne, has today launched the patient charter, the first of its kind in Malta.

This is a document that outlines the duties and patients rights, and any remedial action that can be given to patients if they are not complied with.

The Charter addresses the manner in which the health care service is to be provided, the level of quality expected and the time by when care should be provided in relation to the acuity of a patient's condition.

"In the health sector the patient is the core of everything we do. And as such, patients have to know their rights and what remedial action they can take if they are not met," said Parliamentary Secretary Fearne.

Among other things, the charter patient entitles the patient to his file and the right to a second opinion if the patient feels the need.

"Not only do we believe that every person has a right to care and that it be provided for free, but that the health service should be provided within a time frame. If this time is exceeded, patients will have the right to have an intervention in a private hospital and the Government to cover the cost, "said the Parliamentary Secretary.

The Patient Charter is structured around the following 8 principles that form the foundation for a safe equitable healthcare service delivery:

1. Health Protection

2. Access

3. Information

4. Participation & Informed Consent

5. Privacy and Confidentiality

6. Dignity and Respect

7. Safe healthcare

8. Comments and Complaints

This document is open for public consultation which will last two months, until the 11th of June.

Photograph: DOI/Pierre Sammut

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