KATHMANDU: The Nepal Medical Association (NMA) has drawn the attention of the Ministry of Health and Population, stating that it would be difficult to operate outpatient department (OPD) services on Sundays.
The NMA has urged the ministry to reconsider its decision to run OPD services on Sundays in line with the government’s newly implemented two-day weekly leave system.
The Ministry of Health and Population, however, has issued a directive instructing all health institutions to ensure uninterrupted medical services, regardless of the two-day weekly holiday. It has called on hospitals to manage workloads and continue OPD services even on Sundays.
In response, the NMA stated that implementing the directive would be challenging due to a shortage of medical personnel. It argued that it would be unfair to doctors if duty hours are calculated without considering their continuous workload, including on-call duties, rounds, and emergency services in addition to regular 9-to-5 responsibilities. The association added that the directive cannot be effectively implemented without adequate staffing.
Meanwhile, hospitals have issued differing notices regarding Sunday services under the two-day leave policy. Institutions such as Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Manmohan Cardiothoracic Vascular and Transplant Centre, and Karnali Academy of Health Sciences have decided to fully suspend OPD services on Sundays.
In contrast, hospitals including Rapti Academy of Health Sciences, Bir Hospital, National Trauma Centre, and Bharatpur Hospital have stated that they will continue OPD services on Sundays.
The NMA warned that such inconsistent arrangements could create confusion among patients and urged authorities to review the decision for clarity and uniformity.
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