Maldivian Blood Service has said Thalassemia patients given the opportunity to perform bone marrow transplant will travel abroad on June 25.
The blood service said 5 Thalassemia patients will depart Maldives on June 25. The service said the patients were selected because of their health conditions and the urgent need of medical assistance.
The medical procedure is funded by Zakat Fund and the patients will stay in the Indian city of Bangalore for 4 months, according to the Maldivian Blood Service. The Zakat Fund will provide around USD 64,000 dollars for each patient to cover the cost of the treatment. The amount covers transplantation, tickets and accommodation in Bangalore.
In addition, if further help is needed for the patients, funds will be provided by National Social Protection Agency, according to Maldivian Blood Service.