President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has officially inaugurated the upgraded facility of the Maldivian Blood Services and the Thalassaemia and Other Haemoglobinopathies Centre at Orange Hiyaa in Hulhumalé, marking a major step forward in enhancing care for patients with blood disorders in the Maldives.
After unveiling the new centre, the President toured the facility, meeting with patients and staff to personally assess the quality and accessibility of services.
Underscoring the Administration’s commitment to improving care for thalassaemia patients, President Muizzu—also serving as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces—directed the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) to fast-track the relocation of the Blood Services and Thalassaemia Centre. Acting on this directive, the MNDF completed the move within a month, enabling the swift operational launch of the new facility.
The relocation is aimed at resolving long-standing space constraints and improving the standard of care. The revamped facility now includes a general ward, a dedicated women’s ward, and a separate children’s ward. One of the most notable upgrades is the significant increase in blood storage capacity—from 200 to 600 pints—thanks to the installation of two additional storage units.
To support expanded operations, 16 new staff members have been appointed, including five nurses, six lab technicians, one physician, and several administrative and storage management personnel.
Accessibility has also been improved. A designated bus stop has been established near the centre, and patients now benefit from a dedicated bus card system. Special transport services have already been launched to provide more convenient access to the facility.
As part of broader reforms, President Muizzu recently announced—during the fifth episode of the Rayyithunaa Eku podcast—that the Thalassaemia Centre and Maldivian Blood Services will be brought under the Malé City Group of Hospitals’ Governing Board. This strategic administrative shift is expected to streamline operations and optimize service hours to better serve patients.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to upholding the rights and wellbeing of children with thalassaemia, highlighting the importance of full accessibility in his message on World Thalassaemia Day earlier this year.