PN calls for immediate action at understaffed sexual health clinic

PN calls for explanation on refusal of new appointments at GU Clinic

Opposition MP Claudio Grech says refusal of new appointments at the sexual health clinic is unacceptable and called for immediate action at the understaffed clinic.

The government should explain why Mater Dei Hospital’s sexual health clinic was not accepting new appointments for tests, Grech said.

In reference to reports that the GU Clinic was advising patients that no new appointments will be made for a month or so, Grech said the government should explain why such a sensitive service was lacking the necessary clinical administration and why continuity of service couldn’t be guaranteed.

“The PN believes that the situation is unacceptable in an advanced health system and government should address the situation immediately,” Grech said.

Noting that the situation is in contrast with the World Health Organisation directives and guidelines, the MP said the GU clinic not only provides indispensable screening services but it also offers counselling services which are also being cut due to a lack of resources.

Grech pointed out that while staff members at the clinic were under growing pressure, adding that “the PN is calling on government to ensure that the situation doesn’t deteriorate further and to take immediate action for the service to again start being given at the desired level in a developed country.”