Beginning January next year, the national health insurance scheme Aasandha will cover all expenses related to mental health treatments, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced on Monday.
The announcement was made during a ceremony held to mark the Administration’s second anniversary, celebrated under the theme “Rayyithunnaa Eku Kuriah – Hafthaa 104”. In his remarks, President Dr Muizzu emphasized that mental health continues to be a major public health concern in the Maldives, noting that many individuals currently pay for treatment privately due to limited coverage under existing policies.
“With this decision, the State will ensure that mental health services are fully accessible and affordable for everyone,” the President stated, confirming that all mental health treatment costs will be covered by Aasandha starting January.
Since assuming office, the Administration has introduced multiple initiatives aimed at strengthening the nation’s mental health support framework. On 21 February 2024, the Government launched a dedicated helpline to assist individuals facing mental health challenges, offering confidential guidance and crisis support. Additionally, in October, a comprehensive national suicide prevention strategy was formulated and implemented to help reduce preventable deaths associated with mental illness.
The new Aasandha coverage marks a major milestone in the Government’s public health reform agenda and is expected to significantly increase access to mental health care across the country.