The number of practicing ophthalmologists in Malta increased steadily from 30 in 2013 to 46 in 2023, indicating a consistent growth trend over the past decade. The percentage of year-on-year variation reduced gradually from a high of 14.29% in 2016 to just 2.22% in 2023. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for the years leading up to 2023 consistently hovered around 2.33%, revealing a slowdown compared to earlier periods.
Forecasted data suggests that the number will continue to grow, reaching 51 by 2028. However, the 5-year CAGR is expected to decline further to 1.65%, with an overall growth rate of 8.51% from 2024 to 2028, indicating a decelerating trend.
Future trends to watch for:
- Potential impact of evolving healthcare policies on the recruitment and retention of ophthalmologists.
- Influence of advancements in medical technology and training methodologies on the ophthalmology field.
- Shifts in population demographics that might affect demand and supply dynamics.
