Malta is an island state located in the Mediterranean Sea and a former British colony. Malta gained independence only in 1964, and 10 years later received the status of a parliamentary republic. The population of Malta is a little over 440 thousand people, and the country has the status of the most sparsely populated EU member state. Every fifth Maltese living on the island is an emigrant; the emigration of pensioners from the UK is especially popular here. Life expectancy for men in Malta is 79.6 years, for women 84.3 years. The state guarantees the provision of medical care for all segments of the population. The annual expenditure on health needs exceeds 10%; the financing of the medical sector is carried out through taxes and weekly insurance premiums, which are paid by both employers and employees themselves. To obtain medical ser vices, one can apply to both public and private healthcare institutions. In order to receive medical care foreigners who are not EU citizens have to purchase a private health insurance policy. Malta is a popular destination for medical tourism, as the quality of provided medical services meets European standards, while prices are about a third lower than in European countries.