Gan Regional Hospital has launched online appointment services with mental health specialists. The service will be available in all health centres in the region.
On the occasion of International Mental Health Day, the Gan Regional Hospital has expanded access to specialist mental health doctors throughout the islands in Laamu Atoll. The service will be provided online and four appointments will be made daily for those who wish to see a doctor from other islands in the region.
Speaking to PSM News, Deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Gan Regional Hospital Mohamed Shiyam said that every health centre will have a dedicated focal point for the service. He said initially only four appointments will be scheduled for other islands in the region, adding the hospital aims to increase the number of appointments as demand increases. He said the hospital believes that the online payment will solve the burden of travelling to Gan Regional Hospital to get services.
Furthermore, Shiyam said individuals are reluctant to see a doctor due to the belief that mental illness is a disease that society views differently. Therefore, the island councils and women's development committees (WDCs) are working together to identify individuals with such diseases and provide necessary assistance.
Medication for mental illness is not available in most pharmacies in Laamu Atoll. Therefore, the Gan Regional Hospital has arranged for medicines to be obtained from the pharmacies in the islands through the State Trading Organisation (STO).
There are currently two specialists for mental illness at the Gan Regional Hospital. Although there are no therapy sessions currently available, the hospital is making efforts to establish a special mental health unit next year.