KATHMANDU: The mid-term expenditure report published by the National Planning Commission envisions increasing the life expectancy of Nepalis to 73 years in two years’ time. The current life expectancy is 72 years.

The report states that the life expectancy of a Nepali was 69 two years back.

It is stated that life expectancy has increased as the country has made a notable improvement in infant, child and maternal health in recent years.

The state also provides some financial support in the treatment of non-communicable diseases like heart ailment, kidney disease and cancer.

Likewise, the report has set the target of reducing maternal mortality rate (per 100,000 live births) to 125 from 239, the under-five child mortality rate (1,000 live births) to 26 from 39 and the infant mortality rate (per 1,000 live birth) to 17 from 23 by 2020.

The constitution has guaranteed the right to basic health services as the fundamental right of citizens.

The report further states that the number of women receiving maternity services through health institutions will be increased from existing 57 to 72 per cent and the number of those getting such services from trained health workers will be increased to 72 per cent  from 58.

Neonatal and maternity services in government health facilities are free in Nepal. Besides, the Ministry of Health and Population provides transport allowance of Rs 1,000 to a woman delivering a child in government health facilities.

Similarly, it has been determined to reduce the number of new HIV infected from existing 801 to 710 and to achieve 90 per cent success in the treatment of identified Tuberculosis patients.

The report insisted on the need to increase people's access to quality health services through effective implementation of the health policy, strategies and the Insurance Act.