Cancer Treatment Costs Offset Savings from Expanded Local Healthcare Services

The Maldives has successfully reduced the number of patients traveling abroad for general medical care, but rising costs associated with cancer treatment continue to weigh heavily on the national budget, Health Minister Geela Ali announced. Speaking during a parliamentary session in response to queries from Galolhu North MP Mohamed Ibrahim, Minister Geela explained that while the government has expanded specialized services locally, the overall financial savings have not yet materialized. This is primarily due to the high volume and cost of referrals for oncology services, which remain the largest share of overseas medical expenditures. Data reveals a shifting trend in healthcare utilization. Between 2023 and 2025, the number of patients sent abroad for non-cancer conditions dropped by 821. However, 483 patients were referred overseas specifically for cancer treatment during the same period. The demand for overseas diagnostics has also surged, with over 2,000 people traveling for cancer-related tests in 2025, up from 1,638 in 2023. Despite these challenges, the Minister emphasized that local capacity is growing. Chemotherapy services have seen significant uptake, with 655 patients receiving treatment within the Maldives last year, compared to only 39 who sought the service abroad. Additionally, mammography services have been rolled out in Malé and several atolls, facilitating screenings for approximately 750 residents to date. Minister Geela framed the government's healthcare spending as a long-term investment in human capital rather than a mere expense. She noted that expanded screening and improved access to specialists allow for earlier detection and better recovery rates for Maldivian patients. To further reduce the reliance on foreign hospitals, the government is prioritizing the establishment of a dedicated cancer hospital, PET scan services, and radiotherapy facilities. Once these specialized services become operational, the government expects a significant decline in overseas referrals, making critical cancer care more accessible and affordable for the local population.