New MALDI-TOF Equipment Enhances Diagnostics at St Bernard’s Hospital
The Gibraltar Health Authority (GHA) has announced the installation of a state-of-the-art MALDI-TOF biochemical analyser, a major advancement in medical diagnostics. Donated by Prostate Cancer Gibraltar in partnership with the Kusuma Trust, along with corporate and private sponsors, this £180,000 equipment will transform the capabilities of the Microbiology Laboratory and improve critical patient care.
Revolutionising Diagnostic Capabilities
The MALDI-TOF analyser enables faster and more precise identification of bacterial and fungal microorganisms, a breakthrough that will benefit vulnerable groups such as cancer and immunocompromised patients. Its ability to quickly detect infections, including urine infections and sepsis, will improve patient outcomes through earlier, targeted treatment. Additionally, the analyser will support screening for Candida Auris, a pathogen associated with outbreaks in healthcare settings.
The technology’s focus on targeted antibiotic use not only enhances patient care, but also reduces costs and lowers the risk of developing antibiotic resistance, a significant advancement for the GHA’s microbiology services.
A Community-Focused Partnership
Speaking on behalf of the Kusuma Trust, Michelle Tosso said, “The MALDI-TOF equipment will allow for faster and more accurate diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases, which is crucial for cancer patients and other vulnerable groups. We are delighted to partner with Prostate Cancer Gibraltar and the GHA to provide this life-saving equipment for the benefit of our community.”
A Milestone for Patient Care
Joe Holliday, Chairman of Prostate Cancer Gibraltar, highlighted the charity’s role in securing the equipment: “In the past year, we have raised over £230,000 for the purchase of additional medical equipment. The MALDI-TOF has already proven transformative, saving lives within its first months of operation. We are proud to have funded this machine, which will serve the entire community.” JB.
Leadership Support
GHA Director General, Kevin me McGee, praised the acquisition, stating, “The MALDI-TOF is a game-changer for microbiology, accelerating pathogen identification and enabling more effective, targeted treatments. This technology is a significant addition to our urology services.”
The Minister for Health and Care, Hon. Gemma Arias-Vasquez, also celebrated the advancement, noting, “This equipment, alongside the recently inaugurated one-stop urology clinic, represents a major improvement in Gibraltar’s healthcare provision. Faster and more accurate diagnostics are critical, and I extend my gratitude to Prostate Cancer Gibraltar and the Kusuma Trust for their generosity in making this possible.”
A Step Towards Excellence
The introduction of the MALDI-TOF biochemical analyser reaffirms the GHA’s commitment to excellence in patient care, offering transformative benefits to both specialised and general medical services in Gibraltar.