The Government has expanded its national healthcare scheme, Aasandha, to include medical services in Thailand and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) starting January 15, 2025, with a special focus on kidney transplant services.

The expansion fulfils a key presidential pledge by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, with priority given to kidney patients who have been unable to receive transplants due to donor restrictions. Unlike previous empanelled countries that required first-degree family donors, the new arrangement, particularly in the UAE, opens opportunities for patients to receive kidneys from non-familial donors.

The scheme's second priority group includes patients who have undergone multiple unsuccessful treatments in the Maldives, India, or Sri Lanka. These cases will be referred to appropriate facilities based on medical teams' recommendations.

Aasandha confirmed that the coverage includes medicine costs, airfare, accommodation, and meals for both patients and donors. Currently, agreements have been established with one hospital in the UAE, with discussions ongoing to expand the network of healthcare providers.

To access overseas treatment, patients can apply through several convenient channels: the mobile app, online portal, hospital WIRA counters, or the front office of Aasandha. The service is administered under Article 13(b) of the Husnuvaa Aasandha Regulation (R-19/2015) scheme.

The healthcare provider has indicated plans to expand services beyond these initial priority groups in the coming days, maintaining the same comprehensive coverage currently offered under the Aasandha scheme.