Free Ultrasound and Health Services in Kathmandu.

Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has started providing free ultrasound services to people in need at its urban health promotion centres. So far, 10 out of the 32 urban health promotion centres are offering these services, and five more will join soon. This initiative is open to anyone visiting Kathmandu, regardless of where they come from. Deepak Kumar KC, the head of KMC’s health department, assured that there will be no charges for these services.

Ultrasound tests help doctors diagnose problems like pain, swelling, and monitor pregnancies. Patients can bring prescriptions from other doctors to receive these services. In addition to ultrasounds, KMC also offers free physiotherapy at all its centres.

KMC is also working to set up laboratories in all 32 health centres, making lab tests free for patients. The city’s health programme provides 98 essential medicines for free, covering conditions like diabetes, asthma, and heart disease. Those with government health insurance can access even more medicines. KMC is also training doctors to handle mental health issues and is planning to offer free mental health medication in the future.

The city is conducting health campaigns to raise awareness about issues like blood pressure, sugar and kidney health.