"We have arranged free distribution so that underprivileged citizens can access cancer treatment easily," says Minister Paudel
KATHMANDU, JULY 13
Health and Population Minister Pradeep Paudel has announced that rare and costly cancer medicines, previously unavailable in Nepal, will now be distributed free of cost through government hospitals.
The initiative-carried out in collaboration with international charity Direct Relief-has brought in 37 types of life-saving medicines, with the first batch already arrived in Nepal. The medicines, used to treat breast cancer, skin cancer, and other serious conditions, will be supplied for five years based on Nepal's needs.
"We have arranged free distribution so that underprivileged citizens can access cancer treatment easily," said Minister Paudel at a handover event hosted in partnership with One Heart Worldwide, which facilitated the delivery.
While 37 types of medicines are currently being delivered in phases, Minister Paudel added that efforts are underway to secure additional medicines as needed.
"We will expand the list to provide more relief to a greater number of people," he said.
The decision aims to reduce the burden on cancer patients who are often forced to travel abroad for treatment due to lack of availability and high costs. The Ministry has already dispatched the first batch of medicines to four government hospitals:
- BP Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital, Bharatpur
- Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital, Bhaktapur
- Shushil Koirala Prakhar Cancer Hospital, Banke
- Bir Hospital, Kathmandu
Ministry spokesperson Dr. Prakash Budhathoki confirmed the free distribution of these rare drugs, which also include treatments for Alzheimer's disease and plaque psoriasis.
Dr. Bhim Sapkota, head of the Ministry's Coordination Division, noted that the supply will continue under a five-year agreement. One Heart Worldwide's Nepal representative Suryabhatta credited Minister Paudel's leadership for securing the medicines, calling it a major achievement for Nepal's healthcare sector.
Minister Paudel also urged media outlets to help raise awareness about available government health benefits and insurance schemes.
