The government has taken corrective measures following the death of Mohamed Jaah Khalid, a 13-year-old boy whose critical medical transfer to Male' was delayed.
Jaah was transported to Male' City on Thursday, 16 hours after doctors at Ga. Villingili Hospital ordered him to be sent for further treatment. According to his family, Jaah's condition continued to deteriorate in the time waiting for transportation. He passed away on Saturday morning while receiving treatment at IGMH.
In a statement, the President's Office said President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu was deeply saddened to learn of Jaah's death. President Muizzu extended heartfelt condolences to Jaah's grieving parents and family.
President Dr. Muizzu requested a thorough review from the relevant authorities of the preceding events during the patient’s emergency transfer from GA. Vilingili Island to Malé City. He additionally implored the authorities to revise and modify the current protocols surrounding the emergency transfers of patients requiring immediate medical attention to prevent such incidents henceforth.
Furthermore, the President directed Island Aviation Services Ltd. to establish a protocol prioritizing timely patient transportation for critical patients without requiring the completion of the approval process by administrative bodies, such as Aasandha.
Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen Saturday said that one of the government's top priorities is to introduce an air ambulance service soon. The service is scheduled to comence on March 1.
"Maldivian's policy has been changed effective immediately. In case of an emergency, flight schedules will prioritize emergency evacuations. Once a hospital receives information about an emergency case, Maldivian Airlines will prioritize evacuation," he said.
