Aasandha warns of strict action against pharmacies bypassing insurance system

Aasandha Company has announced plans to enforce stricter measures against pharmacies that refuse to dispense medications through the Aasandha system while continuing to sell the same medicines directly to customers.

Speaking at a meeting of the People's Majlis Social Affairs Committee today, Aasandha Managing Director Aminath Zeeniya said the issue has worsened following the recent adjustment in medication prices. She noted that many pharmacies claim certain medicines are unavailable under Aasandha yet sell them for cash to customers.

Zeeniya stressed that such actions violate the established protocol for pharmacies set by the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA). She said Aasandha is currently revising the protocol to mandate that pharmacies provide all available medications under the Aasandha scheme, warning that non-compliance will result in consequences.

“Pharmacies will be obligated to release all Aasandha-covered medications through the system, if available,” Zeeniya said, adding that changes to the protocol are already underway.

An NSPA official at the meeting confirmed that actions have been taken against violators and emphasized that penalties and strict measures will follow for continued breaches.

Private pharmacies have reportedly struggled with the lower medication prices set under Aasandha, with some halting imports or refusing to dispense certain drugs under the scheme, citing logistical or financial challenges.