Government to Prioritize Private Insurance in Overhaul of Aasandha Scheme

Starting tomorrow, the Maldivian government will prioritize private insurance as part of its plan to reform Aasandha, the national health insurance scheme. This change aims to reduce unnecessary expenditures and streamline Aasandha’s resources to support those who need it most.

The National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) confirmed that, moving forward, private insurance providers will be billed first when individuals use outpatient and inpatient services. For those without private insurance coverage or whose policies have expired, Aasandha will continue to serve as a fallback, ensuring that no one is left without access to essential healthcare.

In recent years, Aasandha Company Private Limited has reported an unsustainable rise in expenses, highlighting that the current model places a strain on resources by allowing equal access to all citizens, regardless of income level or private insurance status. This approach, according to government officials, has led to escalating costs and challenges in allocating sufficient resources for those most in need.

The NSPA has also urged Aasandha users to collect receipts and report any discrepancies or illegal actions by service providers. These measures, officials noted, are designed to curb misuse and create a more efficient and sustainable healthcare safety net.