In a groundbreaking move, the Maldives is now offering medications approved by European health authorities for the first time, marking a significant enhancement in the nation’s healthcare quality.

A joint statement from the Health Ministry, Finance Ministry, National Social Protection Agency (NSPA), Aasandha Company Limited, Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA), and State Trading Organization (STO) revealed that this initiative aligns with President Dr.  Muizzu’s commitment to providing top-quality medications.

According to the statement, Maldives has initiated bulk procurement through a pool procurement arrangement with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), ensuring that medications are sourced directly from pharmaceutical firms.

Future imports would then be WHO-listed, registered with a stringent regulatory authority, or meet the quality standards set by UNDP and MFDA.

Previously, the Maldives imported medicines through intermediaries, which resulted in a 15% increase in import costs compared to global prices and a 70% increase compared to regional market prices.

This policy change ensures medications are purchased directly from manufacturers, enhancing both safety and cost-efficiency.

The implementation will occur in two phases.

Seven initial medications are now available at STO for both wholesale and retail purchases.

Updates to Aasandha and related systems will reflect this new policy, with all changes communicated to public health sector doctors.

The new procedures will be effective from October 1, 2024, allowing time for stakeholders to prepare and for additional familiarization programs to be conducted.

Despite the new policy, medications will continue to be fully covered under Aasandha, with improved control over pricing and system leaks.

This landmark initiative represents a major advancement in the Maldives' healthcare system, providing citizens with access to high-quality European-approved medications and contributing to the overall improvement of public health.