Government hospitals suspend specialist OPD services following public holiday closure
While OPD services at IGMH, Dharumavantha, and Villimale hospitals will be suspended during the two-day government holiday for the elections, emergency services will remain operational. This closure comes amid growing public concern over significant difficulties in accessing healthcare during holidays, with many criticizing the government for failing to deliver tangible results on its promises to strengthen the national healthcare system.
Concerns are mounting among the public over the declining quality of services at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH). | RaajjeMV | RaajjeMV
Government hospitals have suspended specialist OPD services following the closure of government offices.
The government has declared Sunday and Monday as public holidays following the Local Council Elections, Women's Development Committee Elections, and the referendum held on Saturday.
In light of the government holidays, Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) has announced that specialist OPD services and other clinical services at Dharumavantha Hospital, IGMH, and Villimale' Hospital will be closed during these two days.
IGMH stated that despite the suspension of these services, inpatient (IPD) and emergency services will continue without interruption over the next two days.
The lack of access to hospital services during public holidays remains a significant issue. Despite successive administrations failing to address the matter, many citizens continue to voice their concerns, emphasizing the urgent need for medical services during the weekends on Fridays and Saturdays. Furthermore, on Fridays, it is impossible to get even a basic blood test done, not only at government hospitals but also at private clinics.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu assumed office with a pledge to elevate the Maldives' healthcare services to new heights. However, more than a year into this administration, public outcry is mounting. Many citizens contend that the quality of healthcare has deteriorated, citing a rise in fatalities due to medical negligence and a persistent shortage of essential medicines.
