KATHMANDU: Hospitals and healthcare institutions throughout Nepal have shut down all services except emergency care today, following a nationwide protest called by the Nepal Medical Association (NMA).
The strike comes in response to recent verdicts issued by the Consumer Court against several hospitals and doctors for alleged medical negligence.
At Bir Hospital, the country’s oldest and busiest public hospital, only follow-up and emergency cases are being treated. “We are currently providing only emergency services,” said hospital director Dr. Dilip Sharma, who expressed hope for a quick resolution to the dispute.
The protest escalated after the court ordered Grande International Hospital and its doctors to pay Rs 5.7 million in compensation, while Himal Hospital was fined Rs 14.5 million, and Om Hospital Rs 5.7 million — all on grounds of medical negligence.
Health professionals across Nepal had earlier expressed their dissatisfaction by wearing black armbands during duty hours. The NMA argues that the rulings undermine the dignity and integrity of the medical profession.
NMA General Secretary Dr. Sanjeev Tiwari emphasized that medicine is a highly sensitive, science-based profession and should not be judged under the same criteria as other services. “Such cases should be reviewed by the Nepal Medical Council, not courts unfamiliar with the nuances of clinical decision-making,” he stated.
The NMA has urged the judiciary, the Ministry of Health and Population, and other regulatory bodies to review the recent rulings and to establish a conducive and secure environment for medical professionals. The association has also warned of more severe protests if their demands are not addressed promptly.
Today’s halt in services has significantly affected non-emergency patients across the country, raising concerns about continuity of care and the ongoing tension between the judiciary and the medical community.
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