New Laboratory Service Launched at Ukulhas Health Centre

A new laboratory service has been officially launched at Ukulhas Health Centre in Alifu Alifu Atoll, in a ceremony attended by the Minister of Health, Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, alongside community leaders and local residents.

The inauguration represents a major step in improving healthcare access for the island’s population, who previously needed to travel to other islands for essential diagnostic tests.

The laboratory will provide critical services including blood testing, diabetes screening, and diagnostics for heart disease, hypertension, kidney conditions, and mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue. Prenatal testing for pregnant women will also now be available locally.

The launch fulfils a presidential pledge to strengthen healthcare infrastructure across remote islands, enhance early diagnosis, and reduce the burden on patients.

Residents welcomed the development as a significant move towards equitable and accessible healthcare within their community.