The 1400 Helpline is a 24/7 nurse-led telephone triage service within the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and Ministry for Health. It is available to individuals eligible for free healthcare who require guidance for urgent health concerns and helps direct them to the most appropriate healthcare service according to their clinical needs.

When a patient contacts 1400, a registered nurse carries out a structured clinical assessment using a clinical decision support system. The assessment is based on the information provided by the caller. Accurate information is essential to ensure that patients are directed to the most appropriate level of care.

Depending on the assessment, patients may be referred to a Health Centre, Mater Dei Emergency Department, or Private Healthcare Facility. Patients aged between 16 and 75 years who are referred through the service to a participating private healthcare facility receive their emergency consultation free of charge. Private General Practitioners may also refer patients directly through the 1400 Helpline. Where emergency ambulance assistance is required, the nurse immediately transfers the call to 112 to ensure a prompt response.

During the past six months, the 1400 Helpline handled 22,020 calls, including 5,592 referrals to private healthcare facilities, 4,179 referrals to Health Centres, 6,193 referrals to Mater Dei Hospital services and 484 emergency calls transferred directly to 112 for ambulance assistance.

The service helps patients receive the right care, at the right place and at the right time, while reducing unnecessary waiting times and pressure on the Mater Dei Emergency Department. By calling 1400 before attending the Emergency Department, patients may be directed to alternative healthcare services that can address their needs more efficiently.