PL launched a ground breaking approach that puts the party in listening mode, where instead of the MPs doing the talking, the PL is listening in order to have a better understanding of each particular sector in Malta, PL leader Joseph Muscat said during the conclusion of today's discussions at the PL Congress, which this evening discussed the Health Sector.

Joseph Muscat referred to the speech of Mr Charles Grixti as an 'x-ray' of the issues that concern the Maltese Health Sector, and not only did it bring to light the issues but it also offered a number of solutions.

By listening to those who work in the sector and taking the opinions of experts in the relative fields the, Labour Party can design a better health policy that a new government will follow, the PL Leader said.

Based on points that emerged this evening, the solution to MDH's issue of space is based on the reform of primary health. The health professionals need to move away from MDH and adopt a different approach through the better use of health clinics, Dr Muscat held.

Whilst a lot of investment has been made in MDH, other entities such as Gozo General Hospital need a proper review.  The concept of public private partnerships in Malta has been utilised only for the design of roundabouts and homes for the elderly, but a new labour government will maximise this by opening the door to apply such an approach to the health sector as well.

Addressing the issue of care workers, Joseph Muscat said that whilst a new government led by PL will continue investing in professionals, the government will also safeguard the rights of other workers and will not tolerate any form of abuse, and any company found to be abusing its employees will be banned from bidding for government tenders.

The PL will step up the fight against bureauccracy as that is the only way that patients can receive what is rightfully theirs. A system of online appointments and waiting list monitoring are amongst the challenges that will be considered by the PL.

PL leader Joseph Muscat proposed that the PL's guideline for the health sector will be a hospital where the public is served in a prompt and efficient manner, making the patient the centre of the issue. Also, health professionals will be in a position to offer their services in a practical way. The members present approved the proposal unanimously

Party members and the general public, mainly professionals in the health sector, aired their views about issues that they face on a daily basis. The new IVF bill, and a more hands on approach by reaching out to the people through civic health centers were highlighted in the discussion. The general public complained of lack of medical facilities in the south of Malta.

The abominable working conditions care workers are suffering from are leading them to abandon their career. Care workers are being paid a miserable wage, made to pay for their uniforms and are also being refused to have breaks, leading to an increasingly growing poor health service that is being offered to the public, Dr Muscat concluded.