Minister Gautam Flags Financial Mismanagement by Health Insurance Board

Health and Population Minister Dr. Sudha Sharma Gautam has expressed concern that the Health Insurance Board’s spending without secured resources and Ministry of Finance approval has created a major financial burden on the state.

Addressing the 18th anniversary of Patan Academy of Health Sciences, Minister Gautam said that Rs. 1 billion allocated for health insurance in the current fiscal year has already been spent, yet the board’s unchecked program operations have generated liabilities equivalent to Rs. 2.4 billion annually. She emphasized that government funds come from taxpayers’ hard-earned money and must be spent within the approved budget.

“The board raised issues saying the ministry did not release funds. In fact, Rs. 1 billion was allocated this fiscal year. Programs must operate within the budget, and any excess spending requires approval from the Ministry of Finance. Yet the board has neither confirmed resources nor sought approval, creating massive liabilities,” she said.

Minister Gautam also highlighted that the Constitution guarantees free health services as a fundamental right, which is primarily the responsibility of local governments. She called for stronger financial discipline, proper resource allocation, and urged the Health Insurance Board to act responsibly to ensure sustainable management of the health sector.