Health minister says access to medicines harder in Malé
She said many people face difficulties obtaining medicines, including having to visit multiple pharmacies with one prescription.
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Minister of Health Geela Ali has stated that access to prescribed medicines is more difficult in Malé than in the islands.
Speaking on a programme aired by Public Service Media on Sunday night, the Minister addressed current concerns over medicine shortages and possible solutions.
She said many people face difficulties obtaining medicines, including having to visit multiple pharmacies with one prescription. In some cases, patients must return to doctors for alternative prescriptions when medicines are unavailable.
According to the Minister, obtaining medicines can be easier in the islands, where residents may check pharmacies locally and source items from nearby islands if required.
“However, the struggle to obtain prescribed medication in Malé is much greater,” she said.
Dr Geela said a full list of available medicines should be accessible and that doctors should prescribe medicines that are currently in stock.
She added that work is underway to address the issue through a broader approach rather than isolated measures.
Earlier this month, the state pharmaceutical company announced plans for a system to track the availability and location of medicines across the Maldives.
The company said the system would allow the public to check medicine availability, quantities and locations nationwide.
