The Association of European doctors has expressed concern with Prime Minister Joseph Muscat over the decision to exempt public hospitals from planning scrutiny.

In a letter addressed to Dr Muscat and Speaker Anġlu Farrugia, the Standing Committee of European Doctors, said it was “most concerned” with the developments.

Described as an open letter of support to the Medical Association of Malta, the European organisation said quality healthcare depended on laws that prevented possible harmful consequences to patients and healthcare professionals.

The government has published two legal notices that exempt public hospitals from the planning obligation to conduct an impact assessment for any construction that may take place. They also allow development to take place without the need for a full permit.

Maltese doctors have warned that this can loosen controls at a time when the government has earmarked St Luke’s Hospital, Karin Grech and the Gozo General Hospital for privatisation.

Talks are under way with Vitalis, a private operator, for the redevelopment of the three hospitals to provide both private and public healthcare services.

European doctors have come out in support of MAM’s position, insisting that a lack of scrutiny risked non-compliance with national and EU laws on radiation, the handling of radioactive material and biological waste.

“We call upon you to take effective action to safeguard the sustainability of the high quality of healthcare services in Malta,” the letter ended.

The Opposition last week filed a parliamentary challenge, seeking to have the legal notices withdrawn and insisting the exemptions fell foul of EU law.