The government will intensify efforts this year to confront severe staffing shortages across the healthcare system, with particular emphasis on allied health professionals, according to Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, the Minister of Health.
Speaking on a PSM News programme, Minister Nazim said the most significant challenge is the persistent difficulty in securing an adequate supply of doctors, nurses and, most critically, allied health specialists. Domestic demand has far outpaced the available supply. In line with directives issued by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu in his Presidential Address at the inaugural session of Parliament on 5 February, the Health Ministry has launched a campaign to recruit 50 therapists, advertising these positions with enhanced compensation packages and supplementary benefits.
The administration is also pursuing diplomatic channels to secure foreign medical expertise. Nazim noted that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is engaged in discussions with neighbouring countries to source allied health professionals. At the same time, the government is investing in the long-term development of a local workforce. In collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development and the Maldives National University, the Health Ministry will introduce expanded training programmes this year. Minister Nazim expressed optimism that these initiatives would provide meaningful relief to systemic personnel shortages.
The strategy extends to cultivating new physicians. Efforts are underway to increase the number of doctors practising in the Maldives by expanding the network of hospitals authorised to host medical interns, thereby broadening practical training opportunities for MBBS students. Expansion of clinical sites, however, depends on strict standards.
“Consider Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital as an example; initiating such a programme requires a specific patient volume,” Minister Nazim explained. “For comprehensive learning, students must have the opportunity to work in a clinical environment that treats a diverse array of medical conditions. We are unable to facilitate the internship programme in facilities that fail to meet these essential criteria.”
To widen opportunities for medical graduates, the government has secured international partnerships. Following diplomatic discussions, five universities in Bangladesh have agreed to facilitate internship placements for Maldivian students. Recognising that healthcare is a vital public service dependent on a dedicated workforce, Minister Nazim concluded with a direct appeal to recent graduates, urging them to pursue careers in medicine and allied health.