By Dame (Dr.) Georgiana Farrugia Bonnici, Specialist in Family Medicine
Healthcare is changing, and one of the most helpful developments in recent years is telemedicine — medical consultations carried out by telephone or video call.
In the Maltese Islands, telemedicine is now a recognised and accepted way for patients to speak to their doctor, when used appropriately and safely. This article explains what telemedicine is, how it benefits patients, and when a face-to-face consultation is still essential, so that you can make informed decisions about your care.
What is a telemedicine consultation?
A telemedicine consultation is a medical appointment conducted remotely, usually by: Telephone call or Video consultation.
It allows you to discuss symptoms, receive medical advice, review results, or follow up on an existing condition without physically attending a clinic.
Importantly, telemedicine is not informal advice. It is a proper medical consultation, conducted by a registered doctor, documented in your medical records, and governed by the same professional and ethical standards as an in-person visit.
Why telemedicine can be beneficial for patients?
1. Easier access to medical care
Telemedicine removes several common barriers to seeing a doctor: No travel or parking issues, Less time off work or school, Easier access for parents, carers, elderly patients, or those with mobility difficulties. For many patients, especially those managing busy schedules or chronic conditions, this makes healthcare more accessible and less stressful.
2. Faster advice for suitable medical issues
Some health concerns do not always require a physical examination.
Telemedicine can be very effective for:
- Discussing new but mild symptoms,
- Reviewing blood test or imaging results,
- Medication reviews and adjustments,
- Follow-up after a recent illness or hospital visit,
- Ongoing management of stable chronic conditions,
- Mental health follow-ups when risk is low and support is already in place.
In these situations, telemedicine allows patients to receive timely advice without unnecessary delays.
3. Improved continuity of care
Regular follow-ups are essential for long-term health conditions. Telemedicine makes it easier to keep appointments, leading to better monitoring, earlier detection of problems, and more consistent care over time.
4. Reduced exposure to infections
Remote consultations help limit unnecessary exposure to infectious illnesses, particularly: During seasonal flu outbreaks, When patients are unwell but do not need examination, For vulnerable patients who should avoid crowded waiting rooms.
This benefits both individual patients and the wider community.
5. Greater comfort and privacy for some patients
Many patients feel more at ease discussing sensitive issues from their own home. Telemedicine can provide a more comfortable environment in certain situations. Feeling comfortable often leads to more open and honest communication, which improves care.
Is telemedicine safe?
Yes — when used appropriately.
Doctors in the Maltese Islands are required to follow the same standards of care whether a consultation is remote or face-to-face.
This means:
- Your identity is confirmed
- Your symptoms are carefully assessed
- Clear advice is given
- Safety-net instructions are provided
- Proper documentation is kept
- If, at any point, a doctor feels that your condition cannot be safely assessed remotely, you will be advised to attend for an in-person examination or referred urgently if needed.
Telemedicine is not a replacement for all medical care, but a tool that is used when it is clinically appropriate.
When is a face-to-face consultation still necessary?
Some medical situations require physical examination, investigations, or procedures and cannot be safely managed remotely.
You will usually be asked to attend in person if:
- There is chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or neurological symptoms,
- A physical examination is essential for diagnosis,
- Symptoms are severe, worsening, or unclear,
- There are safeguarding concerns,
- The doctor feels remote assessment is insufficient, and if
- Emergency care may be required.
Your safety always comes first, and telemedicine should never delay urgent care.
What to expect during a telemedicine consultation?
To make the most of your appointment:
- Ensure you are in a quiet, private space
- Have a list of symptoms, medications, and questions
- Be honest about how you are feeling
- Follow any instructions given by your doctor
- Ask if you are unsure about next steps.
At the end of the consultation, you should clearly understand:
- The working diagnosis or plan
- Any prescribed treatment
- Warning signs to watch for
- When and how to seek further help
Confidentiality and professionalism
Telemedicine consultations in the Maltese Islands are governed by strict rules on:
- Patient confidentiality,
- Data protection, and
- Professional conduct.
Your medical information is treated with the same level of privacy and respect as during a clinic visit. Doctors are also expected to use secure systems and communicate in a professional and ethical manner at all times.
Telemedicine as part of modern healthcare.
Telemedicine is not about replacing traditional medical care — it is about using the right approach at the right time.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Telemedicine is subject to clinical discretion; your doctor will determine if a remote session is appropriate for your specific condition.
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