Health Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim announced concrete measures to reduce lengthy queues at the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH).

During an interview on Ahaashey Bunaanan programme hosted by Dhivehi Raajjeyge Adu (DRA), Minister Nazim said that the Administration plans to introduce evening Out-Patient Department services to supplement current morning-only offerings.

He attributed the persistent queues to specialist doctor shortages and space constraints, noting that some surgeries face delays due to limited theatre availability and bed space.

Minister Nazim said expanding IGMH's operating hours is merely the initial step, adding that broader systemic improvements are essential. He indicated healthcare workers would receive additional allowances for extended hours.

The Government has begun a project to add 75 beds to IGMH and is consulting medical professionals on queue reduction strategies.

A cornerstone of the plan involves enhancing regional hospitals across the atolls with expanded sub-specialist services. Five hospitals (in Haa Dhaalu Kulhudhuffushi, Raa Ungoofaaru, Gaafu Dhaalu Thinadhoo, Laamu Gan, and Addu City) will be elevated to tertiary-level facilities to reduce pressure on the Malé facility.

Additionally, four general practice clinics will be established throughout Malé to handle common illnesses and divert patient flow from IGMH.

While some departments face significant queues, others report none at all, the Minister noted after recent consultations with senior medical staff.