Minister of Health Ahmed Naseem has stated the government will soon cover the travel expenses for Thalassemia patients.
Speaking at the Parliament, Minister Naseem noted the increase in the number of children with Thalassemia and the challenges faced by their parents. He said the government aims to ease their burden by allocating funds in next year’s state budget to provide them with assistance.
As such, Minister Naseem said the government has held discussions with the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) to cover the travel expenses for Thalassemia patients. He said the main issue is the complicated travel routes within the country but that the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) ferry service has provided easier means of travel for Thalassemia patients living in the connected islands. He highlighted the importance of expanding the RTL service for individuals who seek quick medical treatment and health services.
Records of the Maldives Blood Services show over 930 individuals have registered as Thalassemia patients, with 640 currently alive and half of those registered living in the atolls. As part of the government’s efforts to assist Thalassemia patients, NSPA accommodated travel for Thalassemia patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.