Bank of Maldives Increases Dollar Support for Patients Traveling Abroad

Bank of Maldives Increases Dollar Support for Patients Traveling Abroad

Bank of Maldives (BML) has announced an increase in the amount of US dollars available to individuals traveling overseas for medical treatment. This move is designed to better support patients facing the financial challenges of seeking care abroad.

New Dollar Allowances Based on Medical Coverage

Traditionally, BML provided a fixed amount of USD 500 for all travelers going overseas. Now, patients requiring medical treatment can access higher amounts depending on their specific situation:

  • Patients covered by Aasandha can receive up to USD 2,000

  • Those supported through the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) can also access up to USD 2,000

  • Patients traveling without Aasandha or NSPA support are eligible for USD 1,000

This tiered system aims to ease the financial burden for those who need medical care outside the country.

How to Purchase US Dollars for Medical Travel

Travelers can purchase the required foreign currency by submitting the necessary documents through BML’s internet or mobile banking services. The documentation varies depending on the patient’s support coverage:

  • For Aasandha patients, copies of both the patient’s and assistant’s tickets and passports are required, along with an official Aasandha approval or recommendation letter.

  • Patients supported by NSPA must provide ticket and passport copies for both themselves and their assistants.

  • Those traveling without support need to submit a doctor’s letter recommending overseas treatment. If this letter does not include a diagnosis or medical history, a separate document with that information is also necessary. Additionally, proof of appointment, tickets, and passport copies must be provided.

By adjusting the dollar limits, BML is responding to the growing needs of Maldivians seeking medical treatment abroad. The new arrangements give patients more flexibility and financial assistance based on their individual circumstances, helping to smooth the process of accessing health care beyond the islands.

For many, medical travel involves complex logistics and expenses, and this increased dollar support removes a significant hurdle. BML’s streamlined online process also means patients and their families can arrange their foreign currency safely and conveniently from home.