KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 29
The government has issued a directive concerning the medical treatment facilities for indigent citizens.
The 'Indigent Citizens' Medication Programme Operation Directives, 2080,' designates 120 hospitals to provide health services to impoverished individuals facing critical diseases.
Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, spokesperson at the Ministry of Health and Population, shared that these 120 hospitals across the country have been designated to offer medication to destitute individuals dealing with critical diseases. Despite the existence of the health insurance program, this new directive was introduced to address shortcomings in the previous schemes.
"The insurance scheme is not running effectively; therefore, a new directive has been introduced. It incorporates treatment for serious illnesses affecting indigent people," he explained. Critical diseases covered by the directive include cancer, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, spinal injury, head injury, sickle cell anemia, and heart and kidney diseases.
The government has enlisted both private and community hospitals to deliver health services. According to the directive, Koshi Province has 15 such hospitals for medication, while Madhes Province has 9, Bagmati Province 60, Gandaki Province 15, Lumbini Province 16, Karnali Province 2, and Sudurpaschim Province 3.
Additionally, the directive specifies that individuals in need of a heart transplant will be provided Rs 400,000, and for medication, Rs 100,000. However, for other common heart diseases, the government will provide Rs 100,000.
Furthermore, the government will provide Rs 100,000 to patients with cancer, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, spinal injury, head injury, and sickle cell anemia.
To avail of this service, indigent individuals need to produce a recommendation letter provided by the respective ward office."
