Several major projects are currently underway to upgrade infrastructure and expand medical services at Addu Equatorial Hospital (AEH), according to the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, Ahmed Adeel Naseer.
As the largest healthcare facility in the southern region of the Maldives, AEH plays a critical role in providing medical services to residents of Addu City and neighbouring atolls.
Speaking on PSM News’ programme, Dr Adeel said a number of development projects are progressing through various stages as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare services at the hospital.
One of the most significant projects involves the construction of a dedicated private ward facility, which he said is among the services most frequently requested by the public.
The project is being financed by the Bank of Maldives (BML) under a USD 3.2 million design-and-build agreement.
Under the project, a three-storey building featuring 10 private rooms will be developed within the hospital compound.
“One of the services most requested by the public is private rooms. Therefore, that work is now moving forward under a BML project. The land plot will be officially handed over within the next two to three days,” Dr Adeel said.
He added that development projects worth approximately USD 9.70 million are currently underway at various stages to further upgrade the hospital.
Among these initiatives is a USD 1.29 million project aimed at upgrading the hospital’s executive rooms to meet modern standards. The design phase of the project has already been completed.
Dr Adeel also revealed that work is underway to establish a hyperbaric chamber facility at the hospital.
The facility is intended to provide treatment for patients suffering from decompression sickness, commonly known as “the bends”, which can affect divers. The development is considered particularly important given the popularity of diving activities across the southern atolls.
In addition, AEH is working to expand its therapeutic and specialised treatment services.
The hospital is also recruiting additional staff to support the expansion of services and manage the new facilities once they become operational.
Addu Equatorial Hospital serves not only the residents of Addu City but also functions as a key referral hospital for other southern atolls during medical emergencies.
Health officials believe the expansion of services at AEH will improve access to specialised healthcare in the south and reduce the need for patients to travel to Malé for treatment, easing both financial and emotional burdens on families.