Mater Dei Hospital in Malta: A Parent’s Guide
When living in Malta as an expat parent, one of the first things you’ll want to know is how the healthcare system works—especially hospital care for children. The good news is that Malta has a well-organised public health system, and Mater Dei Hospital is the country’s main and most advanced hospital, offering excellent care for kids and families.
This guide will give you everything you need to know: the services available for children, how to access them, and practical tips on getting there.
Understanding the Public Health System
Free for citizens and residents – Maltese nationals and residents are covered under the public health system.
EU citizens – can access healthcare with a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
Non-EU expats – may need private health insurance unless they are covered through residency and social security contributions.
For most children’s hospital services, you will need a referral from a health centre or private doctor. For emergencies, you can go straight to Mater Dei.
Children’s Services at Mater Dei
Mater Dei is family-friendly and provides a wide range of child-focused care, including:
Neonatal & Paediatric Intensive Care (NPICU): For premature babies and infants up to age 3. Parents are encouraged to stay overnight and receive pre-discharge training.
Pediatric Outpatients (COP): General and specialist clinics for children up to 16 years old, including blood tests and check-ups.
Paediatric Day Care: Short-term care for procedures or follow-up reviews without an overnight stay.
Child-Friendly Wards: Wards with themed names like Disneyland and Fairyland, designed to make hospital stays less intimidating.
Maternity & Newborn Services: Antenatal, birth, and postnatal care, including pediatric checks for newborns.
Therapy & Development Services: Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, often coordinated with the Child Development Assessment Unit (CDAU).
Specialist Clinics: For children with asthma, diabetes, heart conditions, neurological needs, and more.
Emergency & Accident Care: 24/7 care for urgent cases. Call 112 for an ambulance.
Palliative & Emotional Support: Dedicated services for children with serious conditions, supported by psychologists, social workers, and volunteers.
How to Access Care for Your Child
Non-emergency situations
Visit your local health centre/pharmacy or private family doctor.
If hospital care is needed, they will provide a referral note.
Outpatient services
Bring your referral and your child’s documents (ID/passport, residence card, EHIC/insurance).
Go to Children’s Outpatients (COP) at Mater Dei to register for your appointment.
Emergency situations
Dial 112 for an ambulance, or go directly to the Accident & Emergency Department at Mater Dei.
Therapies and specialist clinics
Usually require a referral from your pediatrician or health centre.
Vaccinations
Available for free through Mater Dei and local health centres.
Practical Information
Contact Details
Main Switchboard: +356 2545 0000
Customer Care Office: +356 2545 4184
Emergency Department: +356 2545 4030
Children’s Outpatients (COP): +356 2545 4520
Paediatric Day Care: +356 2545 4940
Neonatal & Pediatric Intensive Care: +356 2545 5450
Therapies (OT, Physio, Speech): +356 2545 6600
Email: customercare.mdh@gov.mt
Address
Mater Dei Hospital
Triq Dun Karm
L-Imsida, MSD 2090
Malta
Getting There by Public Transport
Mater Dei is very well connected by Malta Public Transport, with three bus stops inside the hospital grounds:
Outside the main entrance
Near Block A (Administration)
Between the hospital and the University of Malta
Bus routes serving Mater Dei include:
22, 25, 31, 32, 35, 110, 117, 120, 122, 135, 181, 182, 204, 206, 213, 218, 226, 233, 238, 250, 260
From Valletta: Direct routes include 22, 31, 32, 35, 122
From St. Paul’s Bay: Route 41 to Mosta + transfer (~40 mins, €3)
From the Airport: Use routes 208, X2, X299, or X300
Tip: Download the Tallinja app for live bus schedules and routes.
Final Thoughts
As a parent, it’s reassuring to know that Mater Dei Hospital provides excellent, family-focused healthcare. From emergencies to specialist clinics and therapies, your child is in safe hands. While waiting times for non-urgent cases can sometimes be long, the standard of care is high, staff speak English fluently, and parents are encouraged to stay with their children during hospital stays.
With this guide, you can feel confident navigating Malta’s public hospital system and ensuring your family receives the care they need.
