Five new ophthalmology clinics have been added at St Vincent de Paul, bringing the total number of clinics from 13 to 18 as part of an expansion of specialised eye care services for the elderly.The investment aims to reduce waiting times for appointments and treatments while easing pressure on Mater Dei Hospital.The expansion was announced by Deputy Prime Minister and Health Minister Ian Borg and Parliamentary Secretary for Active Ageing Deo Debattista during a visit to the facility, alongside St Vincent de Paul CEO Jorgen Souness. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lovin Malta (@lovinmalta)The services are available to both St Vincent de Paul residents and people aged over 60 living in the community.They include specialised eye examinations, eye-related procedures, screening for diabetes-related complications and ongoing follow-up care to identify and treat conditions that could affect patients’ vision.The facility also provides Avastin treatment, which involves injections into the eye to reduce swelling in the retina and help prevent further vision loss.Since January 2026, the clinics have treated 863 ophthalmology patients and 1,063 patients receiving Avastin treatment.Borg said the expansion forms part of the government’s efforts to make specialised healthcare more accessible and bring services closer to patients.Meanwhile, Debattista highlighted the importance of eye care in maintaining older people’s independence and quality of life.The government said the additional clinics are expected to allow more patients to receive appointments sooner, reducing waiting lists for ophthalmology consultations and Avastin treatment.•