The universal health insurance scheme of the Maldives, Aasandha has begun issuing medications for those seeking medications for a long-term or chronic illness through old prescriptions.

This was announced by Aasandha on 17 March and came into effect from 27 March onwards.

The change has been implemented as precautionary measure against the Novel Coronavirus (Covid-19) which has been spreading at a dangerously alarming rate throughout the globe and quite recently made an appearance in Maldives.

Further, it was implemented as it is unsafe for those seeking treatment for a chronic illness to visit hospitals these days.

Previously, those seeking treatment for chronic illnesses were required to have their medical prescriptions renewed after a period of 30 days, after consulting with the doctor.

The procedure to be followed when acquiring medicines for old prescriptions is;

· Those seeking medications for long-term illnesses to reach a pharmacy where Aasandha services are provided, with a prescription dated no further than three months back,

· Those seeking medications for long-term illnesses to reach a pharmacy where Aasandha services are provided, with a prescription dated no further than six months back if it is from a foreign hospital,

· Acquiring medications 15 days before their current stock runs out,

· The prescriptions are required to be for long-term or chronic illnesses,

· All required information of the patient must be noted in the prescription and

· Patients’ ID cards and prescriptions will be checked at the counters.

The health insurance scheme has also arranged for Aasandha applications through a service center to make the process easier for those seeking the service.