Malta Hosts Conference Regarding AI In Healthcare In Collaboration With WHO

Malta, in collaboration with the World Health Organization, hosted the high-level conference “AI for Health & Care in Europe – Practical Solutions for a Healthy Future.”

The event brought together Jo Etienne Abela, Malta’s Minister for Health and Active Ageing, Dr Hans Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, and several European ministers and deputy ministers.

Speakers highlighted that while most European countries recognise AI’s potential to transform health care, preparedness varies greatly.

Only 8% have a dedicated national AI strategy for health, with another 14% currently developing one.

64% of countries already use AI-assisted diagnostic tools, and half employ patient-support chatbots.

However, just a quarter have allocated funding to implement their AI priorities, and nearly nine in ten cite legal uncertainty as the biggest barrier to adoption.

Minister Abela emphasised Malta’s strategic investment in AI across health and other sectors.

He noted advancements such as robotic medical equipment and the use of AI to assess callers to the national 1400 line, which has supported over 11,000 people.

He added that a strong economy enables continued investment and announced the upcoming public consultation for Malta’s Digital Health Strategy 2025–2030.

Dr Kluge stressed that AI is already used by millions but warned that without clear strategies, data protection, and digital literacy, inequalities could deepen.

“AI can revolutionise health care, but only if people remain at the centre of every step,” he said.

#MaltaDaily

Photo Credit: DOI Pierre Sammut