Parties identified in UAE, Thailand to expand Aasandha, NSPA says

The National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) announced on Tuesday that it had identified parties to expand the Aasandha national health insurance scheme to hospitals in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Thailand.

NSPA CEO Heena Waleed stated that discussions are underway to fulfil this commitment.

The announcement follows President Mohamed Muizzu's pledge in January to extend Aasandha services beyond existing facilities in India and Maldives to include medical institutions in the UAE and Thailand. Speaking after returning from a state visit to China, the president emphasised the importance of enhancing access to quality healthcare abroad.

During a parliamentary social committee session, MP Abdul Rahman inquired about the status of the initiative.

Responding to repeated questions, Heena reaffirmed the government's commitment to the President's promise.

“It is a promise made by the president to expand Aasandha services to the UAE and Thailand. Work is underway, and details, including the launch date, will be announced soon,” Heena stated.

Under the planned expansion, Aasandha will cover medical and hospital treatments in the new locations. Additionally, the scheme will include accommodation expenses for patients traveling to these countries for healthcare services.

The president highlighted the need for such measures to ensure access to quality health systems until domestic healthcare infrastructure is further strengthened.

Currently, Aasandha services are provided at select hospitals in India and Maldives, with accommodation expenses accounting for a significant portion of costs incurred by patients. The planned expansion is expected to reduce the financial burden on patients while broadening access to international medical facilities.