VP says work on thalassemia hospital will begin ‘soon’

Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef says that the construction of designated hospital for thalassemia patients – a project the cabinet approved in December – will begin soon.

He made the remark at the opening of the National Thalassemia Conference 2024 on Thursday morning.

Addressing the conference, Hussain said that strengthening and expanding healthcare services for thalassemia patients is a priority area for President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

He highlighted on the initiatives launched by the administration during its first 14 weeks, aimed at fulfilling that goal, including the allocation of a 71,000 square feet plot from Hulhumale’ Phase II to build a thalassemia hospital.

“I want to take this opportunity to say that funding arrangements for this hospital is proceeding at a fast pace. The practical works will begin soon, In Sha Allah,” he said.

Hussain also noted that President Muizzu has also delivered on his electoral pledge to provide government sponsorship for bone marrow transplants of eligible thalassemia patients.

The government has also expanded assess to medicines and consumables for thalassemia patients across the country.

“I take this opportunity to reassure the beloved people of this nation that government institutions will work to facilitate easements [for thalassemia patients],” he said.

National Thalassemia Conference 2024 is the third edition of a national conference, aimed at improving services to thalassemia patients and addressing challenges the thalassemia community faces.