Dialysis services have been established in ten islands over the past two years as part of the Government’s efforts to expand access to life-saving treatment across the atolls, Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim has said.

The minister made the remarks while speaking at the launch of dialysis services at the Atoll Hospital in Dhaalu Kudahuvadhoo on Thurday. He noted that the number of patients requiring dialysis two to three times a week has increased due to the growing prevalence of kidney disease in the Maldives.

In response to the rising demand, Nazim said President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has accorded high priority to ensuring dialysis services are available nationwide as a basic healthcare service.

The minister highlighted the severe strain faced by patients and their families who are required to travel frequently for treatment, noting that such hardship can only be fully understood by those directly affected. He said the expansion of dialysis services to more islands would significantly reduce travel time and, in many cases, eliminate the need for travel altogether.

As part of the service expansion, Nazim said the Government has invested in upgrading infrastructure, procuring dialysis machines, and training healthcare professionals to deliver the treatment. He noted that many of the newly covered islands previously lacked trained personnel to provide dialysis services, a gap that has now been addressed.

Ten health facilities have begun offering dialysis services since President Dr Muizzu assumed office. These include Amina Dhiyo Health Centre, Gaafu Alifu Hospital, Shaviyani Atoll Hospital, Noonu Velidhoo Health Centre, Muli Regional Hospital, Thaa Atoll Hospital, Alifu Alifu Hospital, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll Hospital, Baa Dharavandhoo Health Centre, and Dhaalu Atoll Hospital.

As part of efforts to expand treatment options, the Government has also introduced peritoneal dialysis, also known as device-assisted self-dialysis, in the Maldives.