Malta Families Urged: Nutrition Can Cut Non-Urgent A&E Visits
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) has highlighted that 40% of child A&E visits in the UK are for non-urgent issues, pointing to the need for improved access to preventative healthcare and education on nutrition, physical activity, and mental well-being. Rising emergency department attendances reflect challenges in accessing GP appointments and NHS services, with children receiving only 11% of NHS funding despite being 25% of the population. For Maltese families, adopting a Mediterranean diet rich in fresh, local ingredients like fish, vegetables, and legumes can support children’s health and reduce avoidable medical visits. Local restaurants are increasingly offering nutrient-dense, child-friendly menus, making healthy dining out more accessible. Community initiatives such as nutrition workshops and wellness programs can further promote preventative health measures. Small lifestyle changes, such as cooking seasonal produce and encouraging outdoor activities, can help alleviate healthcare system strain and ensure emergency services are available for urgent needs. By prioritizing wellness and prevention,
Addressing Non-Urgent Child A&E Visits: A Call for Preventative Health and Nutrition Awareness
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) has raised concerns about the state of emergency care for children, highlighting that up to two in five (40%) child attendances at A&E are for non-urgent issues. This trend underscores a growing need for better access to preventative healthcare and education for families, including in areas like nutrition, physical wellbeing, and mental health.
As families report difficulty accessing GP appointments or navigating NHS 111 referrals, many feel they have no choice but to turn to emergency departments. Child A&E visits in the UK have surged from 5.4 million in 2018/19 to a projected 6.3 million by 2024/25. Despite children making up 25% of the population, they receive only 11% of NHS funding. Professor Steve Turner, RCPCH president, emphasized that children are being treated as “second-rate citizens in the eyes of NHS funding,” often becoming stuck in a system that fails to prioritize their unique needs.
This issue highlights the importance of a holistic approach to health, starting with preventative measures at home. For Maltese families, this could mean adopting a lifestyle that prioritizes balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and mental well-being. Malta’s rich culinary culture provides an excellent foundation for fostering better health. By incorporating more fresh, local ingredients such as fish, vegetables, and legumes into daily meals, families can support their children’s long-term health while reducing the likelihood of avoidable medical visits.
For example, the Mediterranean diet—well-known for its health benefits—is rich in anti-inflammatory foods that can strengthen immunity, support mental clarity, and promote physical resilience in children. Introducing kids to healthy eating habits early on can help address minor ailments before they escalate, potentially reducing the need for emergency care. Local restaurants in Malta are increasingly offering child-friendly menus with a focus on wholesome, nutrient-dense options, making it easier for families to dine out while staying healthy.
The RCPCH has responded to the current healthcare challenges by introducing new Emergency Care Standards designed to ensure safe, compassionate, and timely care for children. However, healthcare systems cannot work alone; they need the active participation of families and communities. In Malta, this could mean leveraging resources such as nutrition workshops, wellness programs, and community initiatives that combine the joy of food with education on healthy living.
As Maltese parents look to navigate the complexities of modern health systems, it’s worth remembering that small, consistent lifestyle changes can make a world of difference. From cooking more meals at home using seasonal produce to encouraging outdoor activities that promote physical fitness, there are many ways to build a foundation for better health. Together, these efforts could not only improve the lives of children but also alleviate the strain on healthcare systems, ensuring that emergency services are available when they are truly needed.
By fostering a culture of wellness and prevention, Malta can continue to lead the way in promoting a healthier, happier future for its youngest citizens.