KATHMANDU: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has instructed the Ministry of Health and Population to quickly formulate an action plan for reform based on the recommendations from the Health Insurance Reform Suggestions Task Force.
During a briefing at the Prime Minister’s residence today, PM Oli highlighted the importance of ensuring that all citizens have access to medical treatment, irrespective of their financial capacity.
He stated that education on health and well-being should be prioritized, with the goal of creating a healthier Nepal. The Prime Minister also stressed that no one should be deprived of treatment due to a lack of funds if they fall ill.
PM Oli directed the Ministry to bring forward an action plan within a week that would make the proposed changes suggested by the task force practical and impactful.
The briefing was attended by Minister for Health and Population Pradeep Poudel, Task Force Coordinator Dr Shambhu Acharya, members Dr Bhagwan Koirala, Dr Raghuram Kafle, and Member Secretary Dr Saroj Sharma. They highlighted the need for policy, legal, and structural reforms to improve the health insurance program in the country.
Currently, about Rs 11 billion remain unpaid under the health insurance program. The task force has reported that while 27 percent of the total population is enrolled in the program, only 48 percent of those enrolled are receiving services.
It has suggested making enrollment mandatory for all citizens and offering free health services to those living below the absolute poverty line.
Additionally, the task force recommended integrating the health insurance program with basic health services and other social security fund initiatives.
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