#Health #Insurance #Nepal
Health and Population Minister Pradeep Poudel has highlighted the challenges in implementing the health insurance program amidst the current situation. During the reopening of the Mahendranarayan Nidhi Hospital in Basundhara on Tuesday, Minister Poudel emphasized the need for restructuring the insurance program to ensure its effective operation, as the state is unable to sustain it in its current form.
The hospital, which had been closed since Asar 2080, has been re-operated under new management. Minister Poudel stressed the importance of organized implementation of health insurance to make healthcare accessible to all citizens. He noted that while he does not oppose the idea of running the insurance program, he highlighted potential issues in its current operation system.
Representing Kansai Nepal News, Ramesh Khatri expressed his opinion on the matter, noting that Minister Poudel emphasized the necessity of creating a secure fund for health insurance. The Minister proposed the establishment of a secure fund that would collect regular contributions for the operation of health programs, such as the Social Security Fund, Citizens’ Investment Fund, and Savings Fund.
Furthermore, Minister Poudel mentioned the requirement for mandatory health insurance while obtaining national identification and driver’s licenses. He also disclosed that up to five lakh rupees worth of treatment for diseases like cancer and Parkinson’s disease can be covered under the insurance program.
In collaboration with Mahendranarayan Nidhi, Minister Poudel conveyed a message of cooperation with the hospital committee to provide quality services to patients. The hospital’s director, Dr. Vinod Aryal, shared plans to develop the hospital into a cancer hospital, aiming to bridge healthcare services between the plains and the hills.
Former Vice President of Nepali Congress, Bimalendra Nidhi, expressed delight in the hospital’s reoperation despite past challenges. The hospital’s Chairman, Kapil Gyawali, mentioned that currently, the hospital is operating with a staff of 30 employees, expanding gradually to provide services on all 100 beds.
The hospital has been providing free external services since today. Hospital administrator Shobha Shrestha highlighted that services such as general, dialysis, city scan, and pediatric care are being offered. Moreover, the hospital has also initiated nursing classes under the Mahendranarayan Nidhi Memorial Cooperative.
In conclusion, Minister Poudel and former Vice President of Nepali Congress Nidhi were present at the hospital premises to hand over donations. As the hospital progresses towards a new beginning, it aims to offer quality healthcare services to patients, fostering a positive impact on the community.
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Author: MAYA | HARUTO
Posted at: February 26, 2025 12:00 am
