Government shares health sector challenges with WHO

Minister of Health and Gender Dr Mariyam Shakeela has today shared the challenges faced by Maldives health sector with the World Health Organization (WHO).

Health Ministry revealed that during a call on WHO’s Regional Director Margaret Chan today, Health Minister Mariyam Shakeela briefed the Regional Director on constraints faced by Maldives in securing supplies and medication from overseas, and the difficulties faced by the subsequent increase in prices.

Dr Shakeela also highlighted the enormous cost suffered by Maldivians who are forced to travel to neighbouring countries for treatment, due to the lack of proper medical facilities at home. She noted that a sparse local medical community continues to force the country to import medical professional from abroad.

Speaking at the meeting, Margaret Chan pledged support from WHO in alleviating the difficulties faced by the Maldivian health sector.

Dr Shakeela also shared the new government’s 100-day road map for the health sector, revealed the Health Ministry.