Historical medical collections in Malta : current accessibility and future potential

Abstract

Knowledge, awareness and access represent a very significant component of cultural heritage management. However, access to some of the historic medical collections in Malta is limited to researchers and students who often have to request permission to view these collections, which are mostly unknown to the general public. This raises the question of whether opportunities for society to reap greater benefit from these collections are being lost. This dissertation identifies the issues that are presently hindering wider access to the medical collections, and considers whether and how it may be desirable to increase their accessibility to wider audiences. A number of medical collections in both Malta and Gozo are examined. The present management, ownership and accessibility of these medical collections are documented and assessed. The study also examines practical and ethical challenges in their management and public accessibility, and proposes recommendations for the future sustainable management of accessibility to this resource. These aims are achieved through a critical review of the literature as well as from the gathering and interpretation of primary data. The primary research comprises of semi-structured individual interviews with the people in charge of the medical collections, and an observation study of visitor behaviour. Numerous barriers to accessibility are identified, such as the dependency on single individuals, or the lack of promotion of the historic medical collections. Another barrier is the lack of awareness of the medical collection amongst the public. There is also the perception that these kinds of collections are mainly of interest to specialized audiences, such as medical students. There is also a noticeable lack of collaboration between the various stakeholders in this sector. Recommendations on how to overcome these obstacles are proposed. These include promoting medical history, improving their management and accessibility, and carrying out further research. Several avenues to stimulate greater interest and promote accessibility are identified. It is argued that standing still is not an option, and that these collections need to be promoted and made accessible for the enjoyment of both present and future generations.