National healthcare insurance company, Aasandha Company Limited, has commenced Merana Health Scheme service for Maldivians residing in Malaysia.
A total of USD 9.727 million is allocated for all registered Maldivians residing in Malaysia, including USD 648.50 for outpatient services. With the introduction, Aasandha has also increased the total expenses covered in India, Sri Lanka and Malaysia to 65% of the bill. Although cashless services have not yet been introduced in Malaysia, the funds will be reimbursed to residents after the receipts of services are submitted to Aasandha.
Merana was a scheme launched in April to provide health insurance services for Maldivians residing abroad as part of the pledge by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih to offer easier access to government services for people living abroad. Merana insurance will only cover medical services to residents who has at least a valid visa for a period of 6 months. Business visa holders are not eligible for insurance under the scheme.