There are many improvements to be made to the Maldives’ healthcare system. Among these, the most frequently encountered issue is the shortage of available medicines. The Government is taking significant steps to address this problem. As an island nation, the Maldives requires a tailored approach, and the State Pharmaceutical and Medical Supply Corporation is currently working on a solution.
The State Pharmaceutical and Medical Supply Corporation was established in 2025 to tackle shortages in medicines.
Speaking on a PSM News programme, State Pharmaceutical and Medical Supply Corporation Managing Director Dr Shah Mahir noted that administrative and systematic changes are essential to solving this problem.
One of the greatest problems faced today, is the lack of a centralised system to view the availability of medical drugs in the Maldives. Such a system would allow for stock renewal, as well as display expiration dates and statistics of patients utilising high-risk medicine. Therefore, this system is necessary to inform relevant authorities on stock shortages and facilitate a long-term solution to this issue in the Maldives.
Dr Shah Mahir stated that, work is being done to develop a comprehensive digital system which will include details about available pharmaceuticals.
“With this, we need a powerful electronic system. There should be a digital system detailing the available medicines in the Maldives, and their locations to the public. We are now working on developing such a system.” Dr Shah Mahir stated.
The government has informed that the State Pharmaceutical and Medical Supply Corporation has sent in their first order. A hotline was also established, allowing individuals to express concerns and enquire about pharmaceuticals.