Government Eyewear Initiative Provides Affordable Glasses to Over 23,800 Maldivians

A government-led initiative to reduce the financial burden of vision care has provided prescription eyeglasses to more than 23,800 citizens across the Maldives. The program addresses a long-standing challenge where the high cost of spectacles often made essential eye care inaccessible for many families. The core of this effort is managed through 'MCGH Opticals,' specialized outlets integrated within the nation's primary government healthcare facilities. According to data from the Male' City Group of Hospitals (MCGH), these centers have produced and delivered 23,847 pairs of glasses to date. Distribution is centered in four major regional hubs. The Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) leads the rollout with 12,507 pairs delivered from 13,595 orders. Hulhumale' Hospital has provided 8,247 pairs, while Addu Equatorial Hospital and Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital have delivered 1,746 and 1,347 pairs respectively. This expansion of services aligns with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's commitment to integrating affordable vision care into the national health insurance scheme, Aasandha. To further increase accessibility, the government has expanded the network beyond public hospitals. Starting January 15, 18 registered private establishments—including ADK Hospital, Senahiya Hospital, and various specialized eye clinics—began offering eyeglasses under government-regulated pricing. To ensure these services remain affordable for the average citizen, the government significantly increased the Aasandha subsidy for eyewear. Effective June last year, the subsidy rose from USD 64.85 to USD 129.70 per person every two years, providing substantial financial relief and ensuring that prescription glasses are no longer a luxury, but a standard part of accessible healthcare for Maldivians.