NSPA Releases Final List of Couples Eligible for State-Funded IVF

The National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) has released the final list of couples eligible for state-funded In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatment under the Aasandha scheme, following the removal of couples from the provisional list who have already conceived.

Applications for public health insurance coverage for 50 couples unable to afford IVF independently were opened by NSPA on 20 November, with the deadline set for 20 December.

Out of 135 applicants, only 39 couples were initially deemed eligible in the provisional list published on 21 January, which was also opened for complaints at the time.

NSPA announced the final list, excluding the names of four couples who have conceived since the provisional list was issued. Funding has now been allocated for the 35 couples on the final list, and they will be informed of their treatment plans before 11 February.

Aasandha coverage for IVF was expanded in 2024, with 100 couples selected for treatment in the first batch. Of these, 93 couples underwent IVF, and 23 successfully conceived. A total of MVR 30 million was allocated for the treatment.

The introduction of Aasandha coverage for IVF and IUI treatments was among the electoral pledges of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, with a commitment to deliver it within the first 14 weeks of office.

Fertility treatments are currently available in the Maldives at Tree Top Hospital, Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital, and Dharumavantha Hospital.