KATHMANDU, MARCH 27
In response to media reports of a girl child being denied treatment at Kanti Children's Hospital and later dying at another health facility, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health, Upendra Yadav, conducted a surprise visit to the hospital on Wednesday.
He directed the hospital management and medical staff to ensure that no sick individual visiting the hospital would be turned away due to a lack of beds. "I have received complaints that sick individuals who come here end up seeking treatment at private hospitals after being unable to find beds," Yadav emphasized, adding that the hospital must have sufficient beds to accommodate all patients in need of treatment.
The Health Minister pledged ministry support for the expansion of beds and ICU facilities to admit a higher number of patients.
"The practice of waiting in line for hours to obtain tickets and see doctors with significant delays must be abolished," he urged. According to him, doctors should be able to examine lab test reports online.
During the inspection visit, Minister Yadav also instructed the hospital administration to ensure that an adequate supply of medicines is available in the hospital dispensary. He expressed concern that private medical outlets overcharge patients, emphasizing the hospital's responsibility to address this issue.
A high-level inspection team, which also included Secretary Dr. Roshan Pokharel, directed the hospital to promptly repair medical equipment. Hospital Director Dr. Pankaj Ray briefed the team on the hospital's current status.
