The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) has announced that Aasandha has allocated a budget of USD 1.9 million for In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) treatment. The NSPA has published the preliminary list of 37 couples who have been approved for IVF treatment under the first round of the Aasandha Scheme.
This initiative, part of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's presidential pledge, aims to provide IVF treatment through the Aasandha Scheme. Within the first 14 weeks of his presidency, plans to offer Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) and IVF treatments were unveiled. The administration aims to assist 100 couples with IVF treatment through the Aasandha Scheme by the end of 2024.
Speaking to PSM News, Heena stated that the government has sought expert advice for this new initiative in the Maldives. She disclosed that a budget of USD 1.9 million was set for the IVF treatment of 100 couples this year. She also highlighted ongoing efforts to establish an IVF fund to ensure the treatment's effective and sustainable provision.
Arrangements have been made to provide IVF treatment within the Maldives or abroad. Heena affirmed that accommodation and meals for couples seeking treatment abroad or who need to travel to Male' City for treatment will be covered.
NSPA has released the list of applicants who sought assistance during this period. Out of the 153 applications received, 32 were deemed ineligible, and 84 were incomplete. The agency will inform the 37 successful applicants of their treatment plans by July 30, 2024.
Additionally, NSPA has extended the deadline for submitting forms and documents to 14:00 on July 31, 2024. This extension allows those with incomplete applications or new applicants to apply for assistance. Individuals whose circumstances have changed are also encouraged to reapply by the extended deadline. NSPA has also opened the opportunity to submit complaints regarding the published list. If necessary, a revised list will be issued on July 15, 2024.
Most applicants were ineligible due to differences in Body Mass Index (BMI) compared to the standard value. The agency also revealed some cases of incomplete smoking cessation duration.