Laboratory services have officially commenced at the Ukulhas Health Centre, expanding the range of healthcare services available to residents.

The services were inaugurated at a special ceremony held at the health centre, officiated by Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim on 2 January. The event was attended by members of the Ukulhas Island Council, senior health officials, and residents of the island.

Residents of Ukulhas have long had to travel to other islands within the atoll to access laboratory testing. With the introduction of on-island laboratory services, routine blood tests and other essential investigations can now be conducted locally, easing travel burdens and improving access to timely medical care.

According to the Ministry of Health, the laboratory will support the diagnosis and monitoring of common non-communicable diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and kidney-related conditions. The facility will also enable testing for mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue, as well as laboratory services required for maternal healthcare.

The launch of laboratory services in Ukulhas aligns with the Government’s objective of strengthening primary healthcare across the country. Establishing laboratory facilities in all inhabited islands forms part of the presidential pledge of president Dr Mohamed Muizzu to improve access to essential health services nationwide.