Health services will not progress without GP Clinics: Nazim

Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim stated yesterday that Maldives' health services will not advance to better levels without GP Clinics.

While speaking on the "Tharujamaana Eku" podcast regarding the work being done to advance the health sector of the Male' region, Nazim said that everyone initially goes to a specialist doctor no matter the ailment that afflicts them. Due to such situations, people do not go to the intended doctor relevant to their medical issue, with them wasting an egregious amount of money in the process, as was highlighted by the minister.

However, the minister said that with the establishment of the six confirmed GP Clinics, the appointment time, expenses and queuing times will be reduced.

There are currently two GP Clinics, one in Male' (Maafannu) and one in Hulhumale' Phase 2. The third clinic will be established in a Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation (FDC) tower, with the project having already been awarded. 

The government has decided to build a GP Clinic in each district of Male'.

Nazim said that even though more than 500 people are treated daily at IGMH's emergency department, half of them should not be treated there. With a stable GP system, those who seek emergency services will reduce, with those who really require the service being properly treated, said the minister.

The GP Clinics will include vaccines for children, a cessation clinic and counseling for mental health patients. The minister stated that in more serious cases, the mental health patients will be referred to the psychiatry department at either IGMH or Hulhumale' Hospital.

"Our health services will not progress any further without the aforementioned system. We will not see progress by only investing in services, installing machines or increasing infrastructure. We need to strengthen governance and the entire system," said Nazim.

"This is an internationally recognized and popular system."

The minister went on to say that with the establishment and operation of a GP Clinic, those who are ill will be categorized into zones. As an example, the minister highlighted residents of Maafannu who will be registered to the GP Clinic in the district, with it becoming easier to maintain medical records.

"With that, we will see behavioral changes in people. Intellect and thinking will change. It will be easier for citizens once the system stabilizes," said Nazim.

The minister stated that it will be difficult to maintain the quality of service with the current expenditure toward the health sector. He also stated that there is an exorbitant amount of expenses toward the sector, with no ease in sight without the entire system being reshaped.