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Journal of the Malta College of Family Doctors : volume 14 : issue 1

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Title: Journal of the Malta College of Family Doctors : volume 14 : issue 1 Authors: Sammut, Mario R. Abstract: Table of contents:; 1/ GRECH, M. G. - The MCFD at 35 years : looking to the future, supported by the past; 2/ PULLICINO, G., SCERRI, A. M., & ABELA, S. - Evaluating GP trainees’ feedback : a mixed-methods analysis of family medicine placements in Malta’s 2023 Specialist Training Programme; 3/ GATT, B., MERCIECA, S., CARUANA, M., & GRECH, R. - A study of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine awareness and uptake among individuals aged 65 and over in the Gozo community attending Victoria Health Centre and Gozo community clinics; 4/ BONNICI, J., & GRECH, M. - Deprescribing tendencies within primary health care : a literature review; 5/ HASLETT, E. - The impact of telemedicine on primary care accessibility, barriers and patient outcomes; 6/ ZAMMIT, E. - Thirty-five years of standards : the Malta College of Family Doctors, 1990–2025

The MCFD at 35 years : looking to the future, supported by the past

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Title: The MCFD at 35 years : looking to the future, supported by the past Authors: Grech, Maria Grazia Abstract: BACKGROUND: The Malta College of Family Doctors (MCFD) was founded in April 1990 with Dr. Denis Soler as President. In tandem, the newsletter ‘It-Tabib tal-Familja’ was set up, which along the years became the Journal of the Malta College of Family Doctors (JMCFD). In April 2025, a new MCFD Council was elected, with a significant milestone being achieved: the election of the first female president in MCFD history.; OBJECTIVE: To trace the contribution of women in MCFD Councils over the past 35 years.; METHOD: Historical review divided in a section on past female MCFD Council members and a section on equity and equality.; RESULTS: It is clear that the election of a female president was not a fluke. It was the result of talented people who over time proved that talent and capability do not depend on gender. Apart from that, it also depends on having a culture that fosters recognition of talent above all. It depends on mutual support and on measures that promote participation with flexibility. It is important to recognise that women in leadership roles in medicine and academia are disproportionately low compared to the ratio of women to men in medicine and healthcare professions. Thus, it is important to pay tribute to all the women who paved the way for this milestone to be reached.; CONCLUSION: Whilst auguring the MCFD and the JMCFD a happy 35th anniversary, the Council will keep looking forward to propelling the MCFD forward in excellence.

Evaluating GP trainees’ feedback : a mixed-methods analysis of family medicine placements in Malta’s 2023 Specialist Training Programme

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Title: Evaluating GP trainees’ feedback : a mixed-methods analysis of family medicine placements in Malta’s 2023 Specialist Training Programme Authors: Pullicino, Glorianne; Scerri, Anne-Marie; Abela, Sonia Abstract: BACKGROUND: The Specialist Training Programme in Family Medicine (STPFM) was established in Malta in 2007 to provide structured and rigorous training for General Practitioners (GPs). It focuses on clinical rotations in diverse settings, fostering skills in patient-centered care, diagnosis and preventive strategies. Trainee evaluations are critical for assessing and enhancing the programme’s effectiveness.; OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to analyze GP trainees’ evaluations of their Family Medicine placements in 2023. The objectives were to assess satisfaction levels, identify challenges, and propose enhancements to improve the training experience.; METHOD: A descriptive, cross-sectional, retrospective study was conducted using mandatory evaluation forms completed by GP trainees after their Family Medicine placements. Quantitative data were analyzed using satisfaction ratings, while qualitative data underwent item-content analysis to explore key themes and suggestions. Ethical considerations were met, with approval from relevant authorities.; RESULTS: All 65 eligible GP trainees (100% response rate) participated, providing high satisfaction scores (76.1% - 92%). Teaching by trainers received the highest satisfaction (91.5%), while audit/ performance review had the lowest (76.1%). Public sector trainers were rated higher in emergency care and minor surgery, while private sector trainers excelled in chronic disease management and practice management. Qualitative feedback highlighted the need for more hands-on training, structured interaction with trainers, and balanced scheduling.; CONCLUSION: The study revealed generally high trainee satisfaction with Family Medicine placements, underscoring strengths such as effective teaching and a supportive learning environment. Key recommendations include enhancing schedule flexibility, implementing constructive feedback mechanisms, increasing practical skills training, and fostering collaborative learning through peer discussions and home visit opportunities. These insights aim to refine and strengthen the STPFM, ensuring it continues to meet the evolving needs of trainees and healthcare systems.

A study of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine awareness and uptake among individuals aged 65 and over in the Gozo community attending Victoria Health Centre and Gozo community clinics

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Title: A study of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine awareness and uptake among individuals aged 65 and over in the Gozo community attending Victoria Health Centre and Gozo community clinics Authors: Gatt, Bryen; Mercieca, Samantha; Caruana, Martha; Grech, Ruth Abstract: BACKGROUND: This study assessed awareness and uptake of the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) among individuals aged 65 and over attending the Victoria Health Centre and Gozo community clinics.; METHOD: A total of 150 eligible participants, representing a diverse elderly population, were surveyed using a structured questionnaire between October and November 2024.; RESULTS: Findings revealed a low pneumococcal vaccine uptake rate of 6.76%, with lack of awareness (72.6%) identified as the primary barrier. Although healthcare professionals play a vital role in influencing vaccine decisions, mass media emerged as the leading source of vaccine information, surpassing direct physician recommendations. This study found no significant association between vaccine uptake and chronic disease status, gender, or education level, although higher education was linked to greater awareness (p= <0.05).; CONCLUSIONS: The results highlighted the need for a multifaceted public health strategy, including enhanced physician engagement, targeted awareness campaigns, improved accessibility, and educational outreach to address misconceptions. Limitations of this study included the small sample size, convenience sampling, and potential biases in self-reported responses. Strengthening public health education and physician-led interventions is critical to improving pneumococcal vaccine coverage among Gozo’s aging population.