Imagine this: Dr. Maria, a Maltese doctor specialising in the UK’s NHS, receives her monthly salary. But this isn’t just any salary – it’s her full Maltese salary, topped up by the Maltese government. This isn’t a dream; it’s a reality thanks to a new initiative aimed at retaining our medical talent abroad.

The Sweetener Deal

The Maltese government has announced a scheme to pay the full salary of Maltese doctors working in the UK. This isn’t just a token gesture; it’s a significant financial commitment. The scheme, set to start in 2023, will see the government foot the bill for the full salary of Maltese doctors, regardless of the UK’s pay scale.

“We want to ensure that our doctors, who have invested so much in their training, are not left behind financially,” says Dr. Chris Fearne, Minister for Health. “This scheme is our way of saying, ‘We value you, we need you, and we’re here to support you.’ “

Why the UK and Why Now?

The UK was an obvious choice for this scheme. With its strong healthcare system and the close historical ties between the two countries, many Maltese doctors have made the UK their professional home. But with Brexit and the pandemic putting strain on the NHS, the time was ripe for such an initiative.

“We’ve seen our doctors facing uncertainty and pressure in the UK,” says Dr. Fearne. “This scheme is our way of extending a lifeline, of saying, ‘We’re here for you, and we want you to consider coming home.’ “

What’s in it for Malta?

Malta stands to gain from this scheme in more ways than one. By retaining our medical talent abroad, we’re investing in our future healthcare system. With an aging population and a growing need for healthcare services, every doctor counts.

the scheme could also serve as a lure for Maltese doctors working elsewhere in Europe to return home. With the full salary guarantee, they could find the financial security they need to make the move.

“We’re not just investing in our doctors; we’re investing in our healthcare system and our country,” says Dr. Fearne. “This scheme is about more than just money; it’s about ensuring we have the best healthcare system we can, staffed by the best people we can find.”