Faisal, Maldives’ first neonatologist, begins consulting at IGMH

Dr. Mohamed Faisal, the first Maldivian neonatologist, has begun consulting at the Indhira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) in Male’ City.

Faisal, a doctor with two decades of experience under his belt, was working as a pediatrician at the Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital when he applied for a government-backed training program in 2022. He spent the next two years undergoing vigorous training in Sri Lanka as a neonatologist.

The F. Nilandhoo had returned to the Kulhudhuffushi Reginal Hospital in 2025 as the country’s first neonatologist after his training.

IGMH announced on Monday that Faisal has begun consulting at the country’s main government hospital.

We are excited to announce the addition of Dr. Mohamed Faisal, (Consultant Sub Specialist in Neonatology) the first Maldivian Neonatologist, to our esteemed team! His expertise in neonatology will enhance our commitment to providing exceptional care for our tiniest patients. pic.twitter.com/cfO7JmoQrz

— IGMH (@igmhmv) June 8, 2026

Neonatology is a specialized field within pediatrics focusing on the medical care of the tiniest and most vulnerable patients - sick or premature newborn infants.

Neonatologists manage complex conditions like breathing problems, infections, congenital defects, and low birth weight, ensuring fragile newborns get specialized support for optimal health and development from birth through their first weeks.

In a previous interview to Sun, Faisal stressed that medical care for preterm babies is a critical service.

He said that due to a number of factors, including changes to lifestyle, and older maternal age, premature births have been increasing, and is expected to continue to increase.

He stressed that this makes the development of neonatology service all the more crucial.