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Health Minister pledges to resolve difficulties in seeking therapy

Minister of Health Ahmed Naseem has pledged to resolve the difficulties faced by children with disabilities in seeking therapeutic treatment.

Speaking at the Parliamentary Committee on Social Affairs, Minister Naseem said plans are being formulated to increase the systemic efficiency and accessibility of therapy services. He expressed hope an effective change can be brought by mid-2021.

Parents of several children with disabilities have expressed concerns over the lack of specialised therapists and the lengthy delays in fixing appointments for therapy sessions in Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH). Parents who raised the issue with the Social Affairs Committee noted there are only 6 speech therapists in Male’, of which two are part-time therapists. They also noted there are 15 physiotherapists, 6 psychologists, 4 psychiatrists and just one occupational therapist in the country, all of whom are based in Male’.

Parents also highlighted the importance of strengthening the education system to ensure equal access and opportunities for all children. They also highlighted the importance of establishing a better monitoring system to ensure the full implementation of policies and regulations on children with disabilities.