Addu Equatorial Hospital to Launch Paramedic Ambulance Services This Year

Addu Equatorial Hospital (AEH) is set to introduce dedicated paramedic ambulance services in Addu City by the end of the year, aimed at strengthening emergency medical care and pre-hospital treatment. Chief Executive Officer Dr. Ahmed Adeel Naseer confirmed that recruitment is currently underway for paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). This strategic move is designed to ensure that patients involved in serious accidents or medical emergencies receive advanced professional care at the scene and during transport, rather than waiting until they reach the hospital. The initiative comes in response to a growing demand for emergency healthcare in Addu, one of the Maldives' most populated regions. The expansion of road networks and increased vehicle usage across the city have led to a rise in road traffic accidents, placing significant pressure on AEH's emergency departments. Currently, the hospital relies on nurses to accompany ambulances during emergency calls. Dr. Adeel explained that while the current system—where local health centres in areas like Feydhoo and Maradhoo respond quickly to incidents—is functional, it lacks the specialized paramedic support required for advanced field treatment. Speaking on a PSM News programme, Dr. Adeel noted that while AEH has seen significant upgrades since its transition from Hithadhoo Regional Hospital, emergency response remains a critical area for improvement. To support this evolution, the hospital plans to develop a dedicated Ambulance Complex as part of a broader facility expansion programme. By integrating specialized EMTs into the response chain, AEH aims to bridge the gap between the incident site and the emergency room. Hospital officials believe that the combination of skilled personnel and a modernized ambulance hub will mark a major advancement in healthcare delivery for the residents of Addu City and the surrounding islands.