The Ministry of Health, Family and Welfare has said that laboratory services have been introduced in 18 islands that previously had no such facilities, as part of the government's efforts to improve access to healthcare services across the atolls.

Information shared by the ministry with MMTV shows that laboratory services have been established over the past two and a half years in islands where residents previously had no access to basic laboratory testing.

The newly covered islands include Kaafu Gulhi, Kaafu Huraa, Gaafu Dhaalu Hoandedhdhoo, Alifu Alifu Ukulhas, Laamu Maamendhoo, Laamu Dhanbidhoo, Dhaalu Hulhudheli, Noonu Miladhoo, Noonu Maalhendhoo, Noonu Maafaru, Kaafu Himmafushi, Haa Alifu Maarandhoo, Haa Alifu Utheemu, Haa Alifu Vashafaru, Raa Vaadhoo, Alifu Alifu Himandhoo and Alifu Alifu Maalhos.

The Government aims to introduce laboratory services in every inhabited island during the current Administration. To achieve this, additional space is being developed in health centres that do not yet offer laboratory services, while healthcare workers are being trained to provide the service.

The Ministry of Health said laboratory services are expected to be introduced in an additional 76 islands by the end of 2026. Work on the project is currently underway at various stages.

The expansion is intended to reduce the need for residents to travel to hospitals on other islands or to Malé for basic laboratory tests. Once completed, the project will allow residents to access essential diagnostic services from their own islands, enabling earlier detection of illnesses and timely treatment.

The ministry said the nationwide expansion of laboratory services is also expected to strengthen disease surveillance and improve the overall delivery of healthcare services across the country.