Robert Abela Announces Commitment To Improve Cancer Care In Gozo So Patients Won’t Need To Travel To Malta

Prime Minister Robert Abela announced plans for a new robotic pharmacy at Gozo General Hospital that would prepare chemotherapy treatment directly on the island.

The proposal would mark a significant shift for cancer patients in Gozo, who have historically depended on Malta for parts of their chemotherapy treatment and preparation process.

For years, chemotherapy medicines and specialised oncology preparations were handled primarily through facilities in Malta, particularly at Sir Anthony Mamo Oncology Centre and Mater Dei Hospital. Due to the sensitive nature of the medication and the specialised equipment required, Gozo did not have an on-site robotic pharmacy capable of preparing chemotherapy treatment locally.

As a result, many Gozitan cancer patients regularly travelled to Malta for consultations, treatment coordination, and chemotherapy-related services, with the issue frequently raising concerns about accessibility and patient quality of life.

In recent years, the government began investing in infrastructure aimed at improving oncology services in Gozo, including plans for drone deliveries of chemotherapy medicines and the development of new medical facilities at Gozo General Hospital.

Reports earlier this year indicated that on-site chemotherapy preparation in Gozo would only become possible once a new pharmacy facility was completed.

Abela’s latest announcement now confirms plans for that service to finally be introduced, with robotic technology expected to prepare chemotherapy treatment directly within Gozo General Hospital itself.

The proposal forms part of a wider series of Gozo-focused pledges being unveiled by Labour during the ongoing election campaign ahead of the 2026 general election.

#MaltaDaily