The fifth batch of Maldivian patients who require advanced medical treatment, travelled to India on Thursday.

A total of 40 Maldivians travelled to India, including 18 patients and caregivers as well as four medical associates.

While the country’s health insurance provider Aasandha covers costs for those traveling to India under the special approval, they are to be provided the requirement treatment at Amrita Institute of Medical Science.

Aasandha revealed that three of the caregivers had received funding from the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA), while three are to have bought tickets on their own.

Under the set protocols, Maldivians travelling for critical medical care are required to test negative before departure as well as before returning. They are required to undergo a 14-day quarantine period as well, following which they will be tested for the infection again.

In cooperation with Aasandha, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is conducting work and announced that they will be facilitating travel of patients requiring urgent critical care that is not covered under Aasandha.

Patients as well as caregivers will only be allowed to travel after the required authorization from Indian authorities, even if approved by the ministry.

In addition, they will be required to obtain medical visas from the Indian High Commission in Maldives and arrange their own stay as well as quarantine arrangements.

The permission being provided to Maldivian patients by Indian authorities is the first of its kind.