CEO of the Malé City Group of Hospitals, Ibrahim Abdul Razzaq Haleem, has announced notable progress in expanding and developing the services offered by Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) and Dharumavantha Hospital over the past 16 months. 

The developments were carried out during President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s Administration, with a focus on enhancing service delivery and addressing the growing healthcare demands of the public.

Speaking during an appearance on MMTV’s Bodu Khabaru programme, Haleem outlined several initiatives that have been implemented to improve the efficiency and accessibility of services at the Government’s main hospitals. He explained that the primary objective during this period has been to deliver dependable healthcare services swiftly and in a manner that meets public expectations. This has involved targeted efforts to reduce long queues and accelerate service delivery, particularly in response to the increasing number of patients seeking care.

Among the major initiatives was the introduction of specialised facilities aimed at easing the burden on emergency services. These included the establishment of clinics specifically for elderly patients and the introduction of a "Short to Stay" room, designed to provide intermediate care and reduce congestion in emergency areas. According to Haleem, these adjustments have made it easier and quicker for patients to access necessary medical attention.

A key development highlighted by Haleem was the establishment of a dedicated emergency room for children at IGMH, a project that he said received an overwhelmingly positive response from the public. The specialised unit has catered to over 10,000 children since its opening in November last year. He noted that the introduction of a paediatric ER had long been a wish among parents, and the implementation of this service has fulfilled those expectations. The children's ER offers a child-friendly environment and is staffed by paediatricians around the clock to ensure appropriate care for young patients.

Another milestone underlined by Haleem was the upcoming nationwide launch of free medical check-up services under the Aasandha health scheme. The service which began on 10 July 2024, has provided all Maldivians with access to free medical check-ups twice a year. Haleem emphasised that the successful rollout of this programme represents a major step in preventative healthcare and noted that many citizens had already benefitted from the service during earlier phases.

Haleem stated that efforts are now being prioritised to bring Dharumavantha Hospital fully back into operation. This includes the reintroduction of vital services such as the launch of a catheterisation laboratory (cath lab) and the expansion of neurosurgery services, including the commencement of ICU functions. Work is also ongoing to further develop the hospital’s stroke centre.

In addition, IGMH has seen significant infrastructure improvements. Four operating theatres have undergone extensive renovations, resulting in over 2,400 surgeries being performed since their upgrade. Haleem also highlighted the installation of a new medical air plant and the establishment of a Central Sterile Services Department (CST), which have both contributed to strengthening hospital operations and enhancing service quality.