KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) has instructed all public hospitals across the country to form rapid response teams in view of the House of Representatives (HoR) election scheduled for March 5.
According to MoHP spokesperson Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, the directive was issued to ensure preparedness for any potential medical emergencies during the election. Hospitals at the federal, provincial and local levels have been asked to form teams comprising 5 to 25 members, depending on available human resources.
The rapid response teams will coordinate with the respective District Administration Offices to provide immediate treatment to individuals facing medical emergencies, including injuries, and to manage ambulance services for timely transportation to hospitals. A team of medical specialists will be deployed at hospitals to treat patients requiring urgent medical intervention.
The Ministry has also directed all public health facilities to suspend outpatient department (OPD) services on election day and operate emergency services only. Additionally, District Emergency Operation Centres in all 77 districts have been instructed to remain on standby.
Comment