Japan and U.S. collaborate to strengthen paramedical capabilities of health care providers and support staff in 11 islands

　　　　　　Malé, September 1, 2021 – The U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka in collaboration with the Embassy of Japan in Maldives held a series of paramedic trainings for;

1. Twenty-two Emergency Medical Service providers including technicians and drivers in Malé from 16^th to 17^th August 2021.
2. Thirty health care providers and support staff from Raa Atoll Ugoofaaru Regional Hospital, Noonu Atoll Maafaru Health Center, Noonu Atoll Kendhikulhudhoo Health Center, Noon Atoll Hospital, Baa Atoll Hospital, Baa Atoll Dharvandhoo Health Center and Lhaviyani Atoll Hospital. This training was held in Raa Atoll Ugoofaru from 23^rd to 24^th August 2021.
3. Eleven health care providers and support staff from Haa Dhaal Hanimaadhoo Health Center, Haa Alif Atoll Hospital and Shaviyani Atoll Hospital. This training was held in Haa Dhaal Hanimaadhoo from 30^th to 31^st August 2021.

 
　　　　　　A total of 63 health care service providers and support staff successfully completed these intensive trainings led by the Civil Military Support Element Medical Team from the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka. The first of this series of training was conducted for 16 divers from the MNDF Coast Guard Dive & Salvage Unit in March 2021 and the second one was conducted for 33 MNDF Coast Guard officers on August 2021.
 
　　　　　　In October 2019, under the ‘Economic and Social Development Program’, the Government of Japan handed over 21 land ambulances to the Ministry of Health to be distributed to 21 islands across 15 atolls. In order to complement this assistance, the U.S Embassy in Sri Lanka has conducted the paramedic training to the health care providers/ support staff who are the first responders of any medical emergency. And in addition to these trainings, the U.S. Embassy donated medical equipment in value of USD 30, 000 to replenish the local hospital supply.
 
　　　　　　Japan and the United States of America remain committed to lasting friendship with the Maldives and will continue to work together to advance prosperity and ensure safety and security of the people in our countries, the region and beyond.