148 IVF babies on the way as upgraded fertility clinic opens at Mater Dei
Newly refurbished facility is on a par with any private sector offering - Health Minister
A total of 148 babies, including 10 sets of twins, are currently expected to be born through IVF treatment offered at Mater Dei Hospital and the private sector as the newly upgraded Asssited Reproductive Technology (ART) Clinic was inaugurated on Thursday.
Located within Mater Dei Hospital, the clinic has undergone an extensive renovation with an investment of €3.2 million aimed at expanding services for individuals and couples facing fertility challenges.
Speaking at the opening, Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela said no one should be denied the opportunity to start a family due to financial or bureaucratic hurdles.
“Access to fertility care is a right,” he said, describing the ART clinic as a “symbol of excellence in the public health system.”
Since 2013, 756 babies have been born through IVF treatment in Malta. Since 2022, the government has refunded €2.8 million in IVF-related medical expenses.
The renovation involved expanding laboratory space, upgrading environmental controls including air filtration and pressure systems, installing new monitoring equipment to ensure safety, and replacing critical lab infrastructure.
Abela emphasised that the upgraded facility now matches or exceeds private sector standards and is accessible to all types of families, including single individuals and same-sex couples.
“This government has always respected the dignity and humanity of anyone who has a desire to become a parent,” he said.