More than 560 Maltese who had to travel to the UK for medical treatment made use of liaison services offered by the Maltese High Commission in London over the past nine months.

Travelling abroad for medical treatment is often difficult and the patient's loved ones might not have the contacts or frame of mind to make the necessary transport or accommodation arrangements. But an official posted at the Maltese High Commission in London is now totally dedicated to smoothing out details and making the process easier. Starting from their arrival in London, patients can find an ambulance waiting for them at the airport if they are wheelchair bound, on a stretcher or need special assistance.

The liaison officer can also book all transport arrangements that patients would require while in the UK, as well as accommodation for the patients and families - either at the hospital or close by.

Between May 2009 and January, 565 Maltese patients and their families made use of this contact point, according to official figures.

The highest demand for the service was in July followed by October.