Maldives to introduce surcharge from wealthy for Aasandha
Contributions will be charged to individuals earning more than MVR 60,000 per month.
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High-income earners or income taxpayers in the Maldives will be required to pay a "health contribution" to the Aasandha national health insurance scheme starting next year, according to the proposed budget for 2025.
This measure is part of the government’s plan to make Aasandha more accessible to those in need, aiming to reduce the financial burden on the health insurance system.
The budget document specifies that the health contribution will be collected from April 2025. Key details include:
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Contributions will be charged to individuals earning more than MVR 60,000 per month.
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The revenue authority will collect the contributions, modelled on countries that incorporate health payments into income tax collections.
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Funds collected will be used to ensure health coverage for low-income and vulnerable populations through Aasandha.
The contribution will cover outpatient services and non-essential medications, with individuals required to pay part of the bill. The system will set a maximum limit on annual out-of-pocket expenses for contributors.
However, the budget does not specify the exact amount or proportion of the health contributions.
Additionally, beginning this month, individuals who have purchased private health insurance will be required to make their health contribution before they can access Aasandha services.
