KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 25
The Ministry of Health and Population has issued a stern warning to ambulance operators and drivers, cautioning them against diverting patients to private or costly hospitals for financial gain in violation of government regulations.
In a public notice issued on Wednesday, the Ministry said it has received multiple complaints that some ambulance services are transporting patients or injured persons to hospitals of their own choosing, often expensive private facilities, without the consent of the patient, the referring health institution, or instructions from the designated dispatch centre.
The Ministry recently enforced the Ambulance Service Directive, 2082, with the aim of making emergency ambulance operations more effective, organised, cost-efficient, and patient-friendly. Under the directive, all ambulance services are required to operate through an authorised dispatch centre.
Calling such practices "deeply regrettable," the Ministry said exploiting patients and accident victims for unwarranted financial benefit during emergencies is unacceptable. It instructed all ambulance drivers to transport patients strictly to the health facility specified in the referral system or to the facility chosen by the patient.
The Ministry further warned that any ambulance service or individual found violating the directive-including engaging in profit-driven diversions or other actions against prescribed standards-will face legal action in accordance with existing laws.