In a landmark move to enhance public health and curb exploitative practices, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu announced a significant overhaul of the nation’s eyewear services during an exclusive interview with Public Service Media (PSM). The initiative includes the establishment of government-run eyewear services through the Malé City Group of Hospitals and a substantial increase in the Aasandha health insurance coverage for prescription glasses.
Effective June 1, the Aasandha scheme will double its biennial coverage for prescription glasses from MVR 1,000 to MVR 2,000. This enhancement aims to alleviate the financial burden on citizens requiring visual aids, ensuring broader access to essential eye care services.
President Muizzu emphasized that this decision responds to public demand and aims to prevent private entities from capitalizing on the increased allowance by offering substandard eyewear. “Our goal is to eliminate the exploitation of our people by certain business practices. Health is paramount, and we must ensure that citizens receive quality products without being taken advantage of,” he stated during the PSM interview.
The new eyewear service will be integrated into the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) and other government hospitals, providing citizens with reliable options for obtaining prescription glasses. This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance the public health sector, which includes over 60 health-related projects initiated nationwide since President Muizzu took office in November 2023.
In addition to infrastructure development, the administration has focused on human resource expansion within the health sector. Over the past 18 months, more than 1,200 jobs have been created, with significant recruitment in Male’ City hospitals. Efforts are ongoing to address shortages in specialized fields, including nursing, to ensure comprehensive healthcare delivery across the Maldives.
President Muizzu’s administration continues to prioritize preventive healthcare measures and equitable access to medical services, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to the well-being of its citizens. The introduction of the affordable eyewear initiative marks a significant step towards achieving these goals, reflecting a government responsive to the needs and concerns of its people.
