The Maldives’ national health insurance scheme, Aasandha, has announced that individuals with private health insurance can now use their private coverage before claiming benefits under Aasandha.

In a statement issued yesterday, Aasandha confirmed that system integrations have been completed to enable this process at private healthcare centers.

“With this change, those with private insurance will first be charged at the rate their insurance plan covers. Any amount exceeding that coverage will be provided within Aasandha’s limit,” the statement read.

The new rule, which came into effect last Wednesday, aims to streamline healthcare payments and ensure better access to medical services.