All pharmacies previously operated by the State Trading Organization (STO) have officially been transferred to the State Pharmaceutical and Medical Supplies Corporation Limited (StatePharma).

The transfer process began late last month and was completed on Tuesday, with all pharmacy services now operating under State Pharma.

StatePharma said the transition aims to improve access to pharmaceutical services across the Maldives while further strengthening and enhancing the quality of healthcare services.

The company apologised for any inconvenience the transition process may cause to the public and said assistance will be available 24 hours a day through its hotline, 1505. StatePharma added that its goal is to provide high-quality pharmaceutical services to every island and every citizen.

The State Pharmaceutical and Medical Supplies Corporation Limited was established on 9 September last year to improve access to medicines and medical supplies across the country.

The company is responsible for procuring and importing pharmaceuticals, medical consumables and medical equipment, as well as strengthening the nationwide distribution of these supplies.