Ministry of Education has revealed 3,000 students were advised to consult doctors by the end of last year, following health screens at schools.
Speaking to PSM News, Doctor at Senehiya Hospital Colonel Dr. Ali Shahid said although the health screening programme commenced for first graders commenced in 2014, it was not accepted by the parents. However, the programme is now well accepted and supported by the majority of the parents, according to the doctor. In this regard, Dr. Shahid revealed while 82 percent of the students underwent health screening in 2014, 94.6 percent of the students underwent screening last year.
Noting up to last year, 3,000 students were advised to consult specialists following the health screening, Dr. Shahid said similar to previous years, students who need glasses were identified during the screening. He expressed over 600 students were not aware of any issue with their vision. He highlighted 1 student from every 5 students who underwent the health screening had oral health issues.
Speaking at the programme, Deputy Director General at Ministry of Education Hussain Rasheed revealed it has been five years since health screening has been conducted for first graders. Hussain Rasheed highlighted each student must undergo the screening, according to the new health screening system.
Conducting health screenings in schools is an opportunity to emphasise the importance of regular healthcare, following an examination by a general practitioner, according to the education ministry. The screening is not intended for diagnostic and treatment interventions but rather an opportunity to deliver important and relevant health messages to parents and children at a highly receptive time.