Health Minister Geela Ali said today that a proposal to limit Aasandha coverage for people earning MVR60,000 or more a month remains under discussion, despite an earlier indication that the change would take effect tomorrow.

At a press conference at the President’s Office, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu said Aasandha is currently provided without distinction between the richest and poorest beneficiaries.

President Muizzu said the government would change the system from October 1 because he does not believe the current approach is the best way to provide the state funded health insurance scheme.

“So the rich, the income taxpayers, don’t have to get everything for free just like the common people. So that change will be made from next month,” the president said at a press conference on September 7.

Responding to a journalist’s question at today’s press conference, Minister Geela said limiting Aasandha coverage for certain groups was still being considered and that no decision had been made.

“We have not yet decided whether to proceed with this. However, we are in discussions with the Finance Ministry, the Health Ministry and other relevant agencies, Aasandha and other hospitals to see what is the most feasible approach,” she said.

Following the press conference, Minister Geela said the proposal would be submitted to the Cabinet after consultations with the relevant agencies.

As a result, the proposed restriction will not come into force tomorrow, and a new implementation date has not yet been decided, she said.