Aasandha regulation revised to cover fertility treatments

The Aasandha regulation has been amended to include fertility treatments, including in vitro fertilization (IVF), under the state health insurance scheme.

An amendment published on the Government Gazette on Thursday states that fertility treatment services must be provided under a specific set to rules, which must be publicized.

The amendment is effective immediately.

Introducing Aasandha coverage for IVF treatment had been one of President Muizzu’s electoral pledges – and one which he had promised to deliver within the first 14 weeks in office.

Last week, President Muizzu announced that the cabinet has decided to implement the decision.

“We will revise Aasandha scheme’s regulations and publish it on the Gazette. We will also formulate a policy for this and announce it. How IVF and IUI treatments will be provided will be announced.”

President Muizzu said Aasandha coverage for IVF treatment will be available from not just government hospitals, but also private hospitals in the Maldives.

He also announced plans to expand the fertility center at Indhira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), and establish additional fertility centers.

He said that the government will allocate a special budget of around MVR 30 million for it.