Govt Hospitals Must Provide Prescribed Medicines: Minister Paudel

Minister for Health and Population Pradip Paudel has announced that hospitals will no longer be allowed to refuse medicines covered by health insurance, citing a lack of stock.

During his visit to Ilam Hospital, Minister Paudel emphasized that all hospitals must provide the 98 essential medicines approved by the Health Insurance Board. “It is illegal to claim that medicines are unavailable,” he stated, assuring that the government is taking steps to ensure compliance.

He also addressed concerns about doctor shortages, stating that while some hospitals lack doctors, those in the Terai region have twice the required number. He assured that staffing will be properly managed and made it mandatory for doctors to remain at their assigned postings.

Minister Paudel urged hospitals to request only the necessary resources and confirmed that MRI and CT scan facilities cannot be provided at health posts. He highlighted the importance of coordination between all levels of government to improve healthcare services.

Meanwhile, Ilam Hospital submitted a memorandum requesting improvements in physical infrastructure.