The Soavinandriana Hospital Center (Cenhsoa) is expanding for its 135th anniversary, opening several new services, including one that has never existed in Madagascar before.
Madagascar now has its first service dedicated to treating age-related diseases. Military hospital officials, including Deputy Technical Director Colonel Dr. Haingonirina Joëlle Horace, announced the launch of new departments such as neurology, dermatology, physiotherapy, general medicine, and geriatrics. General Willy Ratovondrainy, Director General of the hospital, stated that the geriatric unit was created to address a significant gap in elderly care, made possible by the arrival of a specialized geriatrician.
Geriatrics focuses on managing multiple chronic conditions simultaneously, such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and cardiovascular issues, which are common in the elderly. The new unit is equipped with 28 beds and is already operational, serving both hospital patients and military veterans.
While life expectancy in Madagascar remains lower than in developed nations—averaging 67.64 years according to 2018 census data—it has increased by 6.2 years between 1999 and 2023, according to UNDP reports, making such specialized care increasingly relevant.
In addition to the geriatric unit, the hospital has launched several other projects for its 135th anniversary, including the rehabilitation of the functional rehabilitation department, renovation of the helipad, construction of a sports complex, and the creation of a guesthouse for patients and families from remote areas. Official celebrations are scheduled to begin on August 19.
Captured & Published at: 2026-08-17 06:09:09 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/08/sante-publique-une-unite-de-geriatrie.html