Health Ministry probing unauthorized IVF services by private clinics

Health Ministry has launched an investigation into allegations that several private clinics in the Maldives are providing In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) services without obtaining the necessary permits.

Currently, Dharumavantha Hospital and Tree Top Hospital are the only medical facilities licensed to offer IVF treatments in the country. However, there has been a notable increase in public complaints regarding private clinics allegedly providing these services at significantly high costs.

As infertility concerns become more widespread, numerous local clinics have begun actively promoting various fertility treatments. Some members of the public told Sun that while these clinics advertise IVF and Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) services at different price ranges, they are operating without the required permits.

"I am currently seeking IVF treatment in the Maldives. We are seeing many private clinics advertising IVF and IUI services, which are being conducted without proper authorization," a member of the public told Sun.

Another source familiar with the matter informed Sun that more than 600 individuals are currently on waiting lists for such treatments at certain private clinics in Malé. The source further claimed that these procedures are largely carried out by male doctors from India and described the operation as a "medical mafia" in the Maldives.

Health Ministry has advised the public to verify the credentials of medical facilities before pursuing such specialized treatments.

Speaking with Sun, a media official from the Health Ministry confirmed that authorities are aware of the issue of unauthorized IVF services and that a formal investigation is underway.

Nevertheless, public concern is mounting over what is perceived as a delay in the investigative process, as no regulatory action has yet been taken against the clinics in question.

Under existing healthcare regulations, specialized procedures such as IVF may only be conducted in facilities equipped with the necessary resources, and official authorization. These procedures are highly sensitive and require stringent professional oversight.

It remains unclear when the Ministry’s investigation will be completed or when any action will be taken.