KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Health and Population has decided to implement a two-day weekly holiday—Saturday and Sunday—in government hospitals.
According to ministry spokesperson Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, the decision follows a notice published in the Nepal Gazette on April 4, which introduced a two-day public holiday policy.
Earlier, the ministry had instructed hospitals to continue outpatient department (OPD) services on Sundays.
Budhathoki said that inpatient and emergency services will remain operational around the clock despite the new holiday arrangement.
“Considering the morale and welfare of healthcare workers while ensuring continuous care for patients, previously scheduled surgeries and other services on Sundays will be rescheduled as needed. However, inpatient and emergency services will continue to operate 24 hours as usual,” he said.
The ministry has also urged hospitals to ensure that patients do not face inconvenience during holidays by providing services as far as possible.
Hospitals have been instructed to refer patients to nearby appropriate facilities if certain services are unavailable and to keep ambulances ready at all times.
The ministry has also asked hospitals to publish details of services available during holidays on their websites and notice boards for public information.
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