Health Insurance Board expands First Service Point access for over 9.3 million policyholders
KATHMANDU, JULY 18
The Health Insurance Board has announced that all 9.3 million individuals insured under the government's health insurance scheme can now receive First Service Point (FSP) treatment from any of the 377 designated public hospitals across the country. This applies regardless of their place of residence.
Previously, insured individuals were restricted to seeking care only from pre-designated FSPs. Under the new provision effective from July 17, they can now seek services at any hospital listed under the Board's FSP list, promoting flexibility and convenience.
"This change expands access to healthcare," said Board Information Officer Bikesh Malla. "For instance, a person insured in Jhapa can now receive treatment from an FSP hospital in Kanchanpur." He added that individuals receiving care at FSPs will continue to qualify for treatment at referral institutions.
Currently, 98 hospitals have been designated as referral health institutions, including federal hospitals, specialist and super-specialty hospitals, and health academies.
The Board has also urged all local governments to establish at least one health facility as an FSP and submit applications to the Board for approval.
Launched in 2016 from Kailali district, the national health insurance programme primarily aims to provide accessible care to economically disadvantaged citizens.
