Residents of Kaashidhoo in Kaafu Atoll can now access rehabilitation treatment on their home island following the official inauguration of dedicated physiotherapy services at the Kaashidhoo Health Centre.
Minister of Health, Family and Social Welfare Geela Ali inaugurated the specialized unit during an official visit to the island, fulfilling a long-standing request from the local council and community members seeking localized therapy options.
Island-level rehabilitation care
Prior to the launch of the new unit, patients in Kaashidhoo requiring physical therapy following surgeries, strokes, or musculoskeletal injuries were forced to travel by sea to Malé or nearby regional facilities for regular rehabilitation sessions. The sea commute frequently imposed substantial financial expense and physical strain on patients and their caregivers.
According to the Ministry of Health, the Kaashidhoo facility has been outfitted with specialized therapy equipment and staffed by trained rehabilitation professionals capable of delivering post-operative care, mobility restoration, and chronic pain management.
"The introduction of physiotherapy on Kaashidhoo is a direct step toward ensuring that vital specialized care is accessible close to home, sparing patients the hardship and cost of frequent travel to the capital," Minister Geela stated during the opening ceremony.
Expanding regional primary healthcare
The launch forms part of the government's broader strategy to upgrade atoll health centres into robust primary and secondary care hubs equipped with diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities.
Health authorities noted that decentralized physical therapy services play an essential role in treating non-communicable diseases, preventing long-term physical disability, and managing geriatric mobility issues. The ministry confirmed that similar rehabilitation units are being established in other atoll health centres as clinical personnel and medical equipment become available.
