In a landmark achievement for the decentralization of healthcare in the Maldives, Addu Equatorial Hospital (AEH) has successfully introduced emergency cardiac treatments, marking the first time such services are available outside the Greater Malé region.

The “Primary PCI” (Percutaneous Coronary Intervention) service, essential for the immediate treatment of heart attacks, was introduced during a specialized medical camp conducted in collaboration with the National Cardiac Center from March 31 to April 2. Ibrahim Abdul Razzaq Haleem, CEO of the Malé City Group of Hospitals, confirmed that the initiative successfully completed 11 angiograms and six angioplasties.

Furthermore, the hospital has expanded its specialized services to include the placement of Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICD) and permanent pacemakers. This expansion is a key component of the administration’s policy under President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to enhance regional healthcare infrastructure.

This development is expected to provide significant relief to residents of the southern atolls, offering lifesaving emergency care closer to home and reducing the heavy financial and logistical burdens of traveling to the capital or abroad for urgent medical intervention.