Aasandha Company Limited has eased the Merana health insurance scheme for Maldivians to cover unlisted health service providers in Malaysia.
According to a statement from Aasandha, although the insurance scheme was only previously available from listed clinics and hospitals, the travel restrictions imposed in Malaysia has led to difficulties for locals in obtaining health services. The travel restrictions imposed in Malaysia bans travelling further than 10 kilometers from a residence as part of the measures to contain the spread of COVID-19.
Aasandha has extended the coverage to include all clinics and hospitals in Malaysia. Maldivians in Malaysia can now obtain healthcare from the closest available health facilities should an enlisted clinic or a hospital is unavailable within 10 kilometres away. The company has instructed locals in the country to submit bills and other official documents to Aasandha to claim 65% of the total expenses.
Merana is a health insurance scheme announced to locals living abroad in Malaysia, India and Sri Lanka. However, the service is available to Maldivians living in the said countries with a valid visa for more than 6 months.
Malaysia announced a lockdown in March 18, and the lockdown measures have been eased after containing the spread in the country. Despite easing the lockdown, the schools and public offices will be closed until June 9.