CONNECTING THE FUTURE
OF HEALTHCARE

Medical devices and technology are the future of healthcare. I have been at the forefront of this in my surgical career both in Malta and beyond. Cutting-edge technology allowed us to do now what we thought would be impossible before. An ageing population also needs better care, more frequent monitoring, and adequate companionship and technology can bridge the gap that exists in human resources. Through the Malta Medicines Authority, we want to make sure that medical devices and software being introduced in the market are robust, clinically safe and do their intended purpose. We are taking the necessary steps for the Malta Medicines Authority to establish itself as European Competent Authority, excelling in the evaluation and approval of devices. We want Med-Tech World and its side-events to showcase not only innovation but also the strides in device regulation that will ensure that products entering the market make a difference in our lives without causing harm.

Over the past couple of years, we've failed to realise that our healthcare systems have continued to deteriorate worse than any other patient we've tried to treat and it's up to all involved stakeholders to pull together to achieve the best possible outcome - better healthcare for all. Med-Tech World Summit offers a platform for entrepreneurs and clinicians alike to make the right connections to allow them to work together. I want to be a part of what defines the next ten years of healthcare which sets us on the path of the next century and this is what we've set out to do.

In recent years, Malta has been offering a jurisdictional advantage by regulating in favour of emerging technologies and niches including DLT, Medical Cannabis and AI. We have seen Maltese companies acting as veritable pioneers whilst we have also managed to attract valuable foreign investments. As we recognize the impact that technology has on healthcare we want to replicate this success also in the medtech vertical. Following the success of previous editions the Maltese Government will continue to support the Med-Tech Summit in its efforts to help place Malta on the Health Tech Map.

Over the years we have built the Malta Medicines Authority as one of the leading regulatory bodies in Europe. We recently have re-affirmed this through regulation of medical cannabis products and looking to increase our presence in the medical device industry. I believe that through conferences such as this, we can increase awareness about what is happening in the industry and can showcase why Malta is becoming a powerhouse in regulation. I also think that a scientific component through the presentation of research is essential, and that is why a scientific poster presentation will feature in Med-In Pharma to allow researches to show their work in an international forum to stimulate innovation.

Malta has always had one of the best healthcare systems in the world through the sheer determination of its healthcare professionals and government's vision. We have invested a lot in digitalisation of our healthcare and through initiatives like the Med-Tech Summit we hope to keep attracting top talent to our shores to bolster even further our healthcare system and also participate in providing a better future globally.