Chief Executive Officer of Malé City Group of Hospitals, Ibrahim Abdul Razzaq Haleem, has stated that preparations are being made to conduct gold standard tests to check blood safety.

Speaking on PSM News' "Raajje Miadhu" program last night, Haleem shared information regarding future plans to strengthen the healthcare system in Hulhumalé.

Among these, Haleem highlighted the ongoing work to establish the facilities required to launch NAT testing services before July 26 within the Maldivian Blood Services at the National Thalassemia Center located in Orange Hiyaa.

"DNA services were launched this year. Along with that, preparations are being made to launch NAT testing before July 26 (NAT testing refers to the gold standard tests conducted to ensure the health safety of blood). Because of this, it takes a very short period to obtain results for diseases like HIV, Hepatitis, and Syphilis. Previously, this was something that took many days," the CEO of Malé City Group of Hospitals said.

Haleem stated that these tests will guarantee that the blood transfused into patients is safe. Furthermore, Haleem mentioned that work is underway to add 28 beds using available resources to increase the capacity of Hulhumalé Hospital.

"Work on that ward is also underway. Once that work is completed within the next two to three months and services begin, it will bring some relief. Nevertheless, challenges still exist. I can say with confidence that when these mentioned services begin at Hulhumalé Hospital, it will bring immense convenience to the residents living in Hulhumalé," Haleem said.

Haleem added that once these services are accessible at Hulhumalé Hospital, the load on the branches within the Malé City Hospital Group will reduce. He noted that the Malé City Hospital Group operates in a holistic manner, and expressed gratitude to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu for his advice and budgetary support in these endeavors.