The government spent MVR 2.14 billion on the government's healthcare financing, Aasandha, in 2024, exceeding the allocated budget, according to the Ministry of Finance.
While the budget had allocated MVR 1.9 billion for Aasandha, actual expenditures surpassed this amount by MVR 240 million, representing a 7% increase over the budgeted figure.
In comparison, the government spent MVR 2.11 billion on Aasandha in 2023, marking a 2% rise in expenses in 2024. This reflects a trend of steadily rising costs for the system in recent years.
Historically, government spending on Aasandha hovered around MVR 1 billion annually. However, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly increased healthcare costs, causing Aasandha's expenses to double. Despite these rising costs, successive governments have yet to implement a permanent solution to curb the system's escalating financial demands.
In response, the government is working to reform the Aasandha system. As part of these efforts, price controls have been implemented for 250 commonly used medications, aiming to reduce expenses and improve sustainability.
While the budget had allocated MVR 1.9 billion for Aasandha, actual expenditures surpassed this amount by MVR 240 million, representing a 7% increase over the budgeted figure.
In comparison, the government spent MVR 2.11 billion on Aasandha in 2023, marking a 2% rise in expenses in 2024. This reflects a trend of steadily rising costs for the system in recent years.
Historically, government spending on Aasandha hovered around MVR 1 billion annually. However, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly increased healthcare costs, causing Aasandha's expenses to double. Despite these rising costs, successive governments have yet to implement a permanent solution to curb the system's escalating financial demands.
In response, the government is working to reform the Aasandha system. As part of these efforts, price controls have been implemented for 250 commonly used medications, aiming to reduce expenses and improve sustainability.
