Aasandha Expands to Cover Check-ups, IVF, and Overseas Upgrades
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has revealed a series of updates to the government’s universal healthcare insurance scheme, Aasandha, during a press conference held after a Cabinet meeting at the President’s Office yesterday.
Addressing the first of three presidential pledges related to the Aasandha Scheme, Muizzu highlighted the administration’s emphasis on preventive care. He announced the incorporation of routine medical check-ups as a free service under the Aasandha Scheme, along with the initiation of public awareness campaigns to educate the public about its advantages.
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Muizzu explained that customised packages tailored to specific age groups would be offered, with various disease profiling services available bi-annually upon a doctor’s recommendation. Muizzu expressed confidence that these measures would significantly reduce the prevalence of non-communicable diseases, lower the risk of life-threatening conditions, and promote a healthier lifestyle.
Underscoring the second pledge, Muizzu reaffirmed the commitment to easing patients’ financial burdens when opting for higher-standard hospitals abroad. He clarified that the Aasandha Scheme would cover the cost difference for upgrading healthcare services, introducing a comprehensive grading mechanism to evaluate overseas hospitals.
Muizzu detailed that when a patient is referred to a hospital classified within a superior-grade tier, the Aasandha Scheme would absorb the differential cost.
Regarding the third commitment, Muizzu announced the inclusion of In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) in the fertility treatments covered under the Aasandha Scheme.
Plans to officially amend the Aasandha Scheme regulation for this inclusion were disclosed, along with the formulation and publication of a policy outlining the coverage for IVF treatment. Additionally, Muizzu revealed the establishment of a dedicated Fertility Care Centre, supported by a government-backed fund.
