Transfer of NSPA services to Aasandha aimed at increasing efficiency: Shareef
The government maintains that transferring medical assistance services from NSPA to Aasandha is intended to streamline the welfare system and ensure more efficient delivery to those most in need. However, the public has raised concerns over significant challenges and delays in accessing these services under the new framework. Despite these grievances, a government spokesperson stated that the transition aims to reduce waste and facilitate more convenient access to medical treatment abroad.
Government spokesperson Mohamed Hussain Shareef (Mundu) speaks during a press conference held on Saturday. | Presidents office
Government spokesperson Mohamed Hussain Shareef has stated that several services previously managed by the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) have been transferred to Aasandha Company to improve operational efficiency.
Responding to a question from a reporter during a press conference held on Saturday, Shareef stated that all matters related to healthcare services are being managed by Aasandha.
He stated that consolidating health services currently managed by NSPA under Aasandha would enhance operational efficiency. He further noted that this transition would ensure that assistance is directed specifically to those who are rightfully eligible.
Furthermore, Shareef stated that individuals seeking medical treatment abroad sometimes submit assistance requests to both Aasandha and NSPA, obtaining aid from both agencies simultaneously.
If Aasandha is directly responsible for managing medical affairs, bringing these services under their oversight ensures greater efficiency and speed. This transition provides us with further assurance that the services are reaching those most in need, as you mentioned. Therefore, while the services being provided remain the same as before, implementing them through Aasandha enhances efficiency by eliminating waste. It also provides a better opportunity to verify that the assistance is reaching the rightful recipients.Government Spokesperson Mohamed Hussain Shareef (Mundu)
Shareef stated that even if a specific treatment is available within the Maldives, patients are sent abroad under the Aasandha scheme after considering the challenges in accessing that treatment and the patient's medical condition. He further noted that efforts are underway to strengthen this system.
Despite Shareef's remarks, many citizens contend that accessing Aasandha services under the current administration has become increasingly difficult. Public grievances have mounted over the denial of financial assistance for overseas medical treatment and significant delays in the approval process. Furthermore, some individuals have noted that even when Aasandha coverage is rejected, the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) provides only minimal assistance, ranging from $500 to $1,000.
