Maldives signs with UAE, Thai hospitals to expand Aasandha coverage

The Maldivian state health insurance provider, Aasandha, signed agreements on Tuesday to expand coverage to a hospital in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and two in Thailand.

In a statement on Tuesday, Aasandha said it signed agreements with UAE’s Burjeel Medical City, as well as World Medical Hospital and Bangkok Hospital in Thailand.

According to Aasandha, state health insurance coverage will be available from the hospitals “under special policies” starting January 15.

Extending Aasandha coverage to UAE and Thailand is one of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s pledges.

In a press briefing on January 13, following a state visit to China, President Muizzu said his administration plans to expand Aasandha services to countries that offer better quality medical care services, including the UAE and Thailand.

“In the future, Aasandha will not be restricted to medical facilities in specific countries in a specific region, but will be expanded to countries that offer better services such as UAE and Thailand,” he said, while speaking to reporters from the Velana International Airport.

He also announced plans to provide Aasandha coverage for accommodation as well.

Aasandha services are currently available overseas in select medical facilities in neighboring Sri Lanka and India.