KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 22

Minister for Health and Population, Pradip Paudel, has pledged free medicines and quality healthcare for sickle cell anemia patients.

Speaking at the inauguration of an advanced operation theater at Bheri Hospital, Nepalgunj, the Minister assured comprehensive measures to provide quality care for patients with sickle cell anemia and thalassemia. He announced plans to establish dedicated wards in provincial hospitals across all seven provinces for such cases.

The Minister also shared that the Ministry has approached the Indian government for essential drugs, with negotiations nearing completion.

Additionally, he emphasized the government's focus on disease prevention through awareness programs and further streamlining the health insurance system.

Bheri Hospital Development Committee Chair Birendra Bahadur Shah highlighted the urgent need to expand the hospital's workforce and increase insurance funding.

Meanwhile, Deepak Tharu, a patient from Bardiya, urged the inclusion of sickle cell medication in the health insurance program.