MVR 2,000 Monthly Allowance Launched for Thalassaemia Patients

Applications have opened today for a new monthly allowance of MVR 2,000 for thalassaemia patients, administered under regulations formulated by the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA).

The allowance, announced by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu in October last year, forms part of the government's ongoing efforts to enhance support for individuals living with thalassaemia.

Eligible recipients must be registered in the national thalassaemia patient register and receiving treatment at the Thalassaemia and Other Haemoglobinopathies Centre. Approved applicants will begin receiving payments from the calendar month following application approval.

Applications require the submission of the applicant’s residential address and email address. For applicants under 18 years of age, details of a parent or guardian must be provided.

The regulations mandate the Thalassaemia Centre to maintain a comprehensive national register, including details such as thalassaemia type, treatment categories, age groups, healthcare needs based on medical standards, and other relevant treatment information.

Payments may be discontinued if the Centre determines, in accordance with current medical standards, that treatment is no longer required, in the event of the patient’s death, or upon written request from the recipient. However, the allowance can be reinstated if renewed medical care is deemed necessary based on updated health assessments.

The government has intensified support for thalassaemia patients in recent years, including relocating the Orange Hiya building to the National Thalassaemia Centre, offering free bone marrow transplants to selected patients, and expanding specialised medical services for the condition.