Medical checkup once a year without doctor's consultation under Aasandha

The government has publicized the policy outlining the framework through which the new services under Aasandha will be provided.

The National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) has released a policy titled 'Policy for providing additional services under Husnuvaa Aasandha,' specifying the procedures for availing the three services.

These include the provision of biannual medical check-ups, coverage for hospital transfers abroad, and treatment for women's health issues such as endometriosis and PCOS under Aasandha.

Medical check-ups can be conducted twice a year following doctor's consultation

According to this policy, medical checkup services will be provided through packages specifically designated by Aasandha for individual age groups. Each person within a particular age group can access these services once a year.

A person who has undergone a medical check-up with the consultation of a doctor is eligible for a second medical check-up within the same year.

As per the regulation, medical checkups under Aasandha can only be conducted at government hospitals or health centers.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu also announced that medical check-ups would be included under the Aasandha scheme. He said that, with a doctor's consultation, individuals will have the opportunity to undergo various tests twice a year under Aasandha.

Aasandha Managing Director Aminath Zeeniya stated that X-rays should be taken during check-ups, emphasizing the importance of minimizing exposure for the well-being of the patient.

"Some time ago, to initiate medical check-ups, during the formulation of packages, we incorporated tests that can be conducted either once a year or once every two years. We have communicated this information to NSPA," she said.

She added that despite labeling it as medical check-ups, only fundamental screenings have been scheduled. Blood and urine tests will be conducted, and additional checks will be performed only if the test results indicate any issues.

The Aasandha scheme will cover the cost of transferring patients for treatment abroad after the submission and approval of an application. In instances where a change in the hospital is requested and the cost difference is less than 10 percent, arrangements will be made at no additional cost.

However, if the cost exceeds 10 percent, the service recipient will be responsible for covering the additional expenses, according to the policy. If the hospital wishes to conduct tests that were previously done by the initial hospital, the associated costs will also need to be borne by the individual.

If the new hospital is located in the same city, Aasandha will cover the cost of the transfer. However, in the case of a hospital in another city, individuals will need to arrange and bear their own travel expenses, as per the policy.

According to the regulation, special treatment and medications for women's health issues such as endometriosis and PCOS will be accessible under the Aasandha scheme for any diagnosis.

According to the policy, applicants will be required to apply for treatment through centers registered to provide services under the Aasandha scheme.