Maldives Introduces Aasandha Co-Payment for High Earners Starting January 2027

The Maldivian government has announced that individuals earning more than MVR 60,000 per month will be required to pay a 15% co-payment when using Aasandha services at private health centers, effective January 1, 2027. Health Minister Geela Ali confirmed that the measure is part of efforts to strengthen the state health insurance system and reduce waste. The Ministry of Health, Family and Welfare has published guidelines for collecting co-payments under the Aasandha system in the government gazette. The co-payment will apply at registered private clinics, hospitals, pharmacies, optical centers, and prosthetic service providers within the scheme. Services at government hospitals and health centers will remain free of charge, and no co-payment will be charged for referrals abroad via Aasandha. Certain professionals are exempt from the rule, including doctors and technical staff in the medical field, pilots and technical staff in the aviation field, as well as engineers and technical staff in science-based fields. This exemption aims to support the retention of skilled personnel in crucial sectors. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu initiated the reform to sustain the Aasandha system and reduce state budget waste. Speaking to journalists, the President stated that the policy changes could save approximately MVR 287 million annually, which would be redirected to essential basic services and social development.