Medical education in Malta : present trends and future goals

Abstract

Formal medical education in Malta began in December 1676 with the establishment of a School of Anatomy and Surgery by Grand Master Nicholas Cottoner. Its first director was Dr. Joseph Zammit, who besides being the chief physician of five successive Grandmasters was also a priest and a member of the Order of St. John. It was not until 1771 that a Faculty of Medicine was established in the University incorporating the School of Anatomy and Surgery, thereby enabling Maltese students to study both surgery and medicine locally. Previously, students aspiring to become physicians had to obtain their training and qualifications overseas.