The World Health Organization (WHO)’s Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has commended President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s government for its tobacco control efforts. He made the remarks during a discussion held with the Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, on the sidelines of the 156th Executive Board of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Geneva, Switzerland.
During the meeting, extensive discussions were also held on enhancing the Maldives’ health system through digital technology, and efforts undertaken to strengthen universal healthcare.
The Health Minister highlighted the government’s priorities in strengthening the health system, including efforts being made to expand the field of telemedicine and improve the quality of health services available in the atolls. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to increase the use innovative technology within the system. He further detailed the measures being undertaken to further strengthen the Emergency Medical Service, providing sustainable air ambulance services as well as the safe disposal of medical waste generated by healthcare facilities.
The Minister also mentioned efforts to ensure the enhancement of the healthcare system while also ensuring its sustainability. He also highlighted the role of the primary healthcare system in the early prevention of diseases, and stressed the need to strengthen the system. The two also explored ways to increase the involvement and assistance of WHO in these areas.
Speaking at the meeting, Director-General Dr Tedros recognised the Maldives’ strong commitment to keeping society away from tobacco, and praised the strong measures being taken by the government of President Muizzu. He reaffirmed WHO’s full assistance in strengthening tobacco control initiatives.
Furthermore, the Director General asserted that the WHO’s Health Financial Team will assist the Maldives in enhancing its national health insurance system. Additionally, the organisation’s Southeast Asia Regional Office will support the compilation of the Maldives’ National Essential Medicines List, he stated.
The meeting concluded with the WHO assuring the Maldives of its continued support in strengthening the health system, particularly in telemedicine, and further developing digital health and emergency medical services.