The government has launched a major initiative to decentralise critical therapeutic services, aiming to address a significant healthcare gap for children with disabilities outside the capital.
For years, essential therapies like speech, behavioural, and occupational therapy have been concentrated almost exclusively in Male’, making them inaccessible and unaffordable for many families across the atolls.
With approximately 98 percent of therapy recipients being children, this disparity has hindered early intervention crucial for growth and brain development. The financial burden is substantial, with the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) disbursing over USD 480,000 for therapies ilast month alone.
Recognising this challenge, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s administration has prioritised integrating these services into the government health system as a key promise. Early steps have seen the introduction of speech therapy at regional hospitals in Haa Alifu Atoll and Ungoofaaru, where services have been met with high demand.
In a significant move to ensure nationwide access, the Ministry of Health has announced the recruitment of 40 new therapists. Additionally, to create a sustainable, local workforce, the government is set to launch a national project to train 250 Maldivian therapists, reducing the current reliance on foreign professionals.
This comprehensive expansion aims to ensure every child, regardless of their location or economic background, can access the life-changing therapies they need.