Health Ministry Extends OPD Consultation Hours to Reduce Waiting Times

The Ministry of Health has announced an extension of out-patient department (OPD) consultation hours in regional hospitals, aiming to shorten waiting times and reduce queues.

According to an announcement on the Ministry of Health website, hospitals that previously offered consultations with specialist doctors during standard operating hours will now provide services in two sessions over an extended period starting this month.

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The hospitals that will offer extended hours are Haa Dhaalu Atoll Kulhudhuhfushi Regional Hospital, Raa Atoll Ungoofaaru Regional Hospital, Laamu Atoll Gan Regional Hospital, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll Thinadhoo AbduSamad Regional Hospital, and Addu Equatorial Hospital.

Kulhudhuhfushi Regional Hospital has already commenced the extended service times from last Monday. The remaining hospitals are set to begin the extended hours effective from July 15, according to the Ministry.

Previously, these hospitals provided OPD services from 08:30 to 16:00. With the new extension, services will now be available until 22:00.

The Ministry stated that this change is intended to offer greater convenience to service seekers.