Psychiatry and speech therapy to be provided in atoll hospitals

The government has decided to introduce psychiatry and speech therapy services in all atoll hospitals.

A circular sent to hospitals by Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim stated that the number of persons suffering from mental health conditions in Maldives in rising to a concerning level. He said that this is resulting in increasing number of people suffering from mental health issues, suicide, and disabilities.

Currently, these services are only available in Male' region hospitals, and level 3 or regional hospitals. The policy decision made on Saturday said that a decision has been made to introduce this inatoll hospitals as well as the those living in the islands are facing difficulties in seeking these services.

Hence, with the aim of decreasing waiting lists, and easing access to psychiatrists, psychologists, counsellors, therapists and social workers, a decision has been made to introduce these services in level 2 hospitals.

The government is now preparing to introduce these services in Haa Alif Atoll Hospital, Shaviyani Atoll Hospital, Noonu Atoll Hospital, Baa Atoll Hospital, Lhaviyani Atoll Hospital, Faafu Atoll Hospital, Dhaalu Atoll Hospital, Thaa Atoll Hospital, Gaafu Alif Atoll Hospital and Fuvahmulah Hospital early next year.