Ministry of Health has decided to begin telemedicine services in the Maldives by July 26.
Telemedicine provides remote diagnosis and treatment of patients by means of telecommunications technology. The government previously provided telemedicine services in some parts of the country before halting the service.
Speaking to PSM News, State Minister for Health Ahmed Adil said the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has shown the need for telemedicine in the Maldives, adding the service is an important part of the government’s efforts to develop the health sector. He said the pilot project for telemedicine services will begin in Faafu Atoll by July 26.
The government aims to introduce telemedicine services across the country to allow atoll residents to receive treatment and health services that are currently unavailable in their island or atoll. Telemedicine is expected to ease the financial burden on patients that have to travel for medical treatment by allowing them to be treated remotely by specialists working in the Maldives.