Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim has stated that recent changes to the administration of the health system are expected to bring positive improvements, particularly in strengthening coordination between island health facilities and the Ministry of Health.

Speaking at a press briefing at the President’s Office today, the minister said one of the main challenges faced by health services in the atolls has been limited coordination with the Ministry, which has affected service delivery in some islands.

He noted that under the new arrangement, the management of certain health facilities has been brought directly under the Ministry, enabling them to work more closely with central authorities and improving administrative efficiency.

With the changes, key functions such as budgeting and staff recruitment for these facilities will be handled under the direct supervision of the Ministry. Health centres in smaller islands will also be able to submit requests directly to the Ministry, rather than relying on other service providers within the atoll.

The minister described the reform as a deliberate step aimed at empowering island-level health facilities, adding that training is being provided to health workers to support the transition. He expressed confidence that the changes will result in improved service delivery across the health sector.