The national health insurance provider, Aasandha, has signed agreements with hospitals in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Thailand to expand its coverage.
Until now, Aasandha benefits were limited to select hospitals in India and Sri Lanka.
Agreements have now been signed with Burjeel Medical City in the UAE, as well as World Medical Hospital and Bangkok Hospital in Thailand, in line with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's pledge to enhance healthcare services available to Maldivian citizens. The contracts were signed by Aasandha's Managing Director, Aminath Zeeniya.
Aasandha said patients will be referred to these hospitals under the scheme from 15 January 2025.
The government is currently undertaking efforts to introduce Aasandha coverage in more countries and overhaul the Aasandha system as a whole. Several previously uncovered services and treatments have also been included in the scheme as part of these reforms.