Medical Aid

Question:-

Is it permissible for a couple to apply for medical aid?  Many women have medical aid policies due to the high costs involved when giving birth, etc.

Answer:-

Our Darul Ifta does not approve of any form of medical insurance due to it comprising of the element of gambling and Riba. We haven’t yet changed our view as treatment is still available at government hospitals, although one may experience some difficulty such as having to wait lengthy durations, or being turned away if a female hasn’t yet fully dilated etc. We are in constant contact with some doctors working at government hospitals who update us on the condition of government hospitals. If the condition at government hospitals deteriorates even further, then we will review our Fatwa, but for now, our Fatwa remains the same, that medical insurance is not permissible.

ALLAH TA’ALA KNOWS BEST!

CHECKED AND APPROVED BY:

Mufti Mohammed Desai

Date: 07 Shabaan 1444 / 28 February 2023