KATHMANDU, MAY 1 The Ministry of Health and Population has directed all government hospitals across the country to operate outpatient department services today, even as the day falls within a three-consecutive-day public holiday period spanning Friday, Saturda and Sunday. The directive was issued to prevent disruption to healthcare access during the extended break, Ministry Deputy Spokesperson Dr. Sameer Kumar Adhikari confirmed. The Nepal Medical Association, however, has expressed concern regarding the notice. In a press release signed by General Secretary Dr. Sanjeeb Tiwari, the NMA said it strongly objects to the government compelling doctors and health workers to operate OPD services on public holidays - including International Labour Day - without prior consultation with the medical community. The NMA argues that doctors and healthcare workers are also 'laborers' who work around the clock. Forcing them to run OPD services on International Labour Day is deemed an injustice by the association. The NMA points out that while emergency and essential services always remain open, OPD services are non-essential for a single holiday. They state that the Ministry's decision is 'impractical and unscientific.' The NMA strongly demands that the Ministry withdraw the notice immediately and ensure that healthcare workers can observe the holiday, keeping OPD services closed on Friday.