Voluntary blood donation needs increment: Dr. Khaleel

Minister of Health Dr. Abdulla Khaleel on Thursday noted the lower number of voluntary blood donors, and urged all capable donors to extend their support.

The minister made the remarks at the launching ceremony of ‘Ley’ – a new application developed in partnership with HRDC LLP and the Health Ministry, aimed at enhancing and managing blood donation services.

Besides Minister Khaleel, several high-profile health industry professionals were among the attendees of the app launching ceremony.

Statistics showed voluntary blood donors in the Maldives are currently at a significantly low level, Khaleel said and noted that while 507 donors were registered for blood donation in 2023, only 240 are registered this year.

Khaleel stressed blood donation did not pose any health issues, and encourages everyone to donate. He also highlighted that the number of thalassemia carriers is higher in the Maldives compared to other countries in the region. He emphasized the importance of promoting blood donation.

“Improving the system for thalassemia patients is among the top priorities of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administrative agenda. To ensure they receive blood with ease,” Khaleel said.

The minister noted of 27 blood donation camps held so far by Maldives Blood Services and other organizations.

He said the ‘Ley’ application launched on Thursday is a crucial step towards easier and more accessible blood donation services, which he added will greatly reduce the time consumed by patients seeking blood for transfusions.

Khaleel added the application would bridge the gap between the donor and the patient as well.

The minister stressed the importance of technological integration in the health sector. He also added that improved technological integration will boost the efficiency of the sector.

He urged private corporations and organizations to share similar technology of theirs with the government, to use for the convenience of the people.

At Thursday’s ceremony, individuals who had donated blood the most from 2019 to 2023 were awarded commemorative plaques acknowledging their contributions.