Laboratory services have been launched in Vaadhoo and Maakurathu of Raa Atoll.
The service was inaugurated on both islands by Minister of Health Abdullah Nazim Ibrahim, in separate ceremonies held on both islands.
Laboratory services are a basic healthcare need, and the government is working to make it available across all islands. The government aims to establish the service in 76 islands where service is currently not available, by the end of this year. Maakurathu and Vaadhoo are the 17th and 18th islands to receive the service.
The laboratory service will facilitate early detection of certain diseases and will further strengthen the government's efforts to build a healthy generation.
Following the service inauguration, the Health Minister met with the senior management team of the health centres of both islands to discuss their concerns and explore solutions.
A significant challenge for the residents of both islands has been the inability to access laboratory testing on the island, requiring samples to be sent elsewhere or patients to travel. The introduction of laboratory services is expected to bring ease for island residents.