By Times of Malta
Malta and Italy have signed an agreement for the emergency supply of blood components and the separation and treatment of blood plasma, in a bid to bolster Malta鈥檚 preparedness for emergencies. The agreement was announced in a National Blood Transfusion Service statement Thursday, which described it as a 鈥渟ignificant step toward enhancing cross-border healthcare collaboration鈥. Blood components include red and white blood cells, protein and platelets, while the separation and treatment of blood plasma, known as plasma fractionation, is used to separate and purify proteins from plasma. Plasma fractionation, which is in rising demand worldwide, is seen as a 鈥渒ey pillar鈥 of EU strategy for healthcare, the statement read. The “pivotal” technical agreement is aimed at improving Malta鈥檚 capabilities to deal with major accidents, public health crises and natural disasters. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Permanent Secretary for Health Joseph Chetcuti said that in such instances, 鈥渆very second counts… highlighting how Italy鈥檚 support will provide not only vital medical resources but also invaluable peace of mind鈥. The statement noted that Italy, known for its 鈥渁dvanced blood transfusion systems and medical expertise,鈥 was seen as a 鈥渘atural partner鈥 for Malta. Malta National Blood Transfusion Service medical director Monique Debattista said the agreement was 鈥渘ot just about a supply chain; it鈥檚 about saving lives鈥.