A new laboratory service at Ukulhas Health Centre in Alifu Alifu Atoll was officially launched in a special ceremony attended by the Minister of Health, Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, community leaders and local residents.
The inauguration marks a significant milestone in improving healthcare access for the island’s population, who previously had to travel to other islands for essential diagnostic tests.
Minister Nazim emphasised that the laboratory will offer critical services, including blood testing, diabetes screening, and diagnostics for heart disease, hypertension, kidney conditions, and mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue. Prenatal testing for pregnant women will also be available locally.
The launch fulfills a presidential pledge aimed at strengthening healthcare infrastructure across remote islands, enhancing early diagnosis, and reducing the burden on patients.
Residents welcomed the development as a major step toward equitable and accessible healthcare in their community.