Key health services have been introduced across Noonu Atoll during a visit by Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, Minister of Health, aimed at strengthening healthcare access in the atolls.

During the visit, Minister Nazim inaugurated the new building of the Miladhoo Health Centre along with laboratory services on the island. He also inaugurated laboratory services in Noonu Maalhendhoo and Maafaru.

In addition, physiotherapy and mental health services were launched at Noonu Atoll Hospital in Manadhoo, further enhancing access to specialised healthcare services for residents of Noonu Atoll.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Miladhoo Health Centre, Nazim said the establishment of laboratory services in every island has been one of the most frequent requests raised by residents during visits by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.

The Minister said the President aims to establish laboratory services at health centres across all islands by 2026. He added that all stakeholders in the health sector are working together to achieve this goal.

“One of the biggest challenges faced by health centres in the islands has been the lack of space and the absence of adequate laboratory services. This is the most common concern raised when the President visits the islands,” Nazim said.

Miladhoo Health Centre has been operating for 18 years, but the facility had not been upgraded to meet population growth and evolving healthcare needs. The Ministry of Health said the new building will help address long-standing capacity constraints and support the expansion of disease prevention and preventive care services on the island.