https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/4397 Tue, 14 Apr 2026 03:17:28 GMT 2026-04-14T03:17:28Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/4497 Title: A study of the management of head lice by paediatricians in Malta Authors: Galea, Marthese; Sciberras, Christopher Abstract: Head lice infestation is a condition found in every country in the world about which it is important to have proper education and awareness. This study aimed to examine the treatment of head lice and the education given to the patient and their parents from the paediatrician’s point of view. A questionnaire consisting of multiple choice questions and a covering letter was sent by post to all the paediatricians that were registered in Malta’s specialist register as of May 2014. Guidelines from the UK and America were used to draw up this questionnaire. Fri, 01 May 2015 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/4497 2015-05-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/4492 Title: Confidentiality and treatment of young adults : proposals for amendments : the Gillick Proposition Authors: Mangion, Ann Marie Abstract: The law does not determine between legal competency and actual competency of minors in medical issues. The objective of this paper is to put forward proposals to amend the legislation to redefine legal competency on the base that understanding should have more bearing than age. The English landmark case of Gillick is used to analyse the Maltese situation. The Maltese legislation was examined and it resulted that there is no legal definition of what competency is. Various legislations use different ages to define competency. The Genito-Urinary (GU) Clinic was even given permission to assess a minor’s competency itself and if it is determined by the medical professional that the minor is competent then such minor will be treated without the need for parental consent. To substantiate the claim, in 2009 the researcher carried out empirical research using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Questionnaires were given to children aged between 6 and 18. Structured and semistructured interviews were used to interview legal and medical professionals involved in the field. By triangulating the results the conclusion reached is that that minors do seek treatment without parental consent and that there are medical professionals who already treat minors without parental consent. There is the need for legal reforms to substantiate the reality of actual competency of minors. Fri, 01 May 2015 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/4492 2015-05-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/4491 Title: Point-of-care genetic counselling : should family physicians counsel patients on genetic testing and screening? Authors: Mallia, Pierre Abstract: Family medicine has come of age, with family doctors/general practitioners taking on greater roles and responsibilities and health care systems recognizing the important role of primary care. It is in this scenario that the question of pre- and post- testing counselling of genetic tests which are or would be offered directly to the general public through advertising and over-the-counter testing is being raised. This type of counselling would require enough personnel to deal with a large number of people; people who may not have genetic disorders in their families but who are curious about testing such as that for Breast Cancer (BRCA). It is argued that family doctors, albeit needing continuing professional development in this area, already have a solid foundation in genetics and are strategically placed in the community and numerous enough to impart such counselling. This would also liberate the responsibility from specialised geneticists who need to deal with families and individuals who have more serious genetic disorders to be managed. Fri, 01 May 2015 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/4491 2015-05-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/4490 Title: Journal of the Malta College of Family Doctors : volume 4 : issue 1 Authors: Mallia, Pierre Abstract: The mission of the Journal of the Malta College of Family Doctors (JMCFD) is to deliver accurate, relevant and inspiring research, continued medical education and debate in family medicine with the aim of encouraging improved patient care through academic development of the discipline. The JMCFD strives to achieve its role to disseminate information on the objectives and activities of the College. Description: Contents: Cross border movement of doctors - Pierre Mallia; Minutes MCFD Annual General Meeting (held on Thursday 8th May 2014 at the Professional Centre, Sliema Road, Gzira at 8:00pm.); Proposals for Statute (AGM 5th May, 2015) Fri, 01 May 2015 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/4490 2015-05-01T00:00:00Z