Physiotherapist Alban Cuka and Staff Nurse Ruth Garrity from Hospice Malta have recently completed a job shadowing programme at Galway Hospice in Ireland. The visit, supported by the Erasmus+ fund, is part of Hospice Malta’s ongoing strategy to develop professional skills and augment learning through international collaboration.

During their placement at Galway Hospice, Alban and Ruth observed the multidisciplinary team in operation. Their activities included attending team meetings, conducting home visits, observing inpatient care, and participating in day clinic sessions. The programme also offered insights into the integration of psychosocial and spiritual care, documentation procedures, and patient-centred care planning.

This visit builds on earlier job shadowing placements by other members of Hospice Malta’s care team, including previous visits to hospices across Europe. Additional staff are expected to take part in similar mobility programmes throughout the coming months, as Hospice Malta continues to invest in its team’s development.

Anna Frendo, Chief Clinical Officer at Hospice Malta, said, “International job shadowing programmes offer valuable opportunities for our clinical staff to observe a range of care practices and approaches. These experiences help inform and refine how we deliver services locally, supporting our goal of maintaining the highest standard of palliative care. By learning from colleagues abroad, we can better respond to the needs of our patients and families, ensuring our care remains comprehensive and patient-focused.”

Hospice Malta provides palliative care free of charge across Malta and Gozo to patients with cancer, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, as well as respiratory, cardiac, kidney and liver disease at an advanced stage. The organisation supports both patients and their families through a multidisciplinary team approach.

Support for Hospice Malta’s services is made possible through public generosity. Donations can be made online via the Hospice Malta website at www.hospicemalta.org.