President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has taken direct control of efforts to improve thalassaemia care in the country following a visit to the National Thalassaemia Centre on Sunday. 

His intervention follows years of frustration from patients and families over deteriorating service quality and operational shortcomings at the facility. 

President Dr Muizzu’s visit is the first time in recent history that a sitting president has personally examined the centre and engaged directly with patients, families, and staff—signalling a decisive shift in the Government’s approach to thalassaemia care. 

During his tour, the President met with patients undergoing blood transfusions and spoke with their families and caregivers. He inspected various departments to assess service gaps and later visited the Orange Hiya building in Hulhumale’, where the centre is scheduled to be relocated. 

In response to concerns raised by patients and families, he announced that all reforms would be carried out under his direct supervision and assured that financial constraints would not hinder the necessary improvements. 

One of the most pressing issues identified was the absence of a Director General at the centre since 2017. The President instructed authorities to expedite the appointment process and ensure stronger leadership to drive these much-needed reforms. 

He also ordered an increase in human resources, including the recruitment of additional nurses and laboratory technicians. This expansion aims to extend the centre’s working hours to better accommodate patients, bringing it in line with major hospitals such as Indhira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH). 

The planned relocation to Hulhumale’ was another key focus of discussions. President Dr Muizzu highlighted the benefits of the new facility, which will offer significantly more space and expanded resources. 

To address accessibility concerns, he confirmed that a designated bus stop would be established near the new centre, along with other logistical measures to ensure patients can access care without additional burdens. 

The Government has already begun implementing measures to enhance service quality following years of advocacy from patient groups and families. The President emphasised that the relocation process must be carried out in consultation with patients to prevent unnecessary disruptions to their treatment. 

For over a decade, advocacy groups and families have pushed for improvements, often with little progress. Despite repeated pleas, meaningful reforms remained out of reach, leaving many patients struggling with inconsistent care and inadequate resources. 

Now, with the President stepping in directly, his Administration’s commitment to reform signals a renewed urgency—one that patients and their families hope will finally bring tangible improvements to the country’s thalassaemia care system.