Health minster faces questions over delay in an official registry of blood donors

Health Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim faces questions from the Parliament regarding the failure to establish a detailed registry of individuals who donate blood to thalassemia patients.

The request to question Nazim was filed on Sunday by North Galolhu MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu), a member of the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

Kudu wrote that establishing a national blood service in all healthcare facilities and establishing a detailed registry of blood donors introduced to the Thalassemia Center by thalassemia patients is mandatory under both the Health Act and the Thalassemia Control Act.

He questioned Nazim regarding why it is taking so long to get this done, as well as the challenges to offering modern solutions in the blood service.

He asked that Nazim provide his answers in writing.

Maldives is home to the largest population of thalassemia patients in the South East Asia region, with over 600 registered thalassemia patients.

Patients have complained for years regarding lack access to a regular supply of blood, essential medicines as well as other issues.