Kathmandu: The government has recently issued a directive outlining the medical treatment facility for indigent citizens in Nepal. Titled 'The Indigent Citizens' Medication Programme Operation Directives, 2080,' the directive designates 120 hospitals across the country to provide health services to impoverished individuals facing critical diseases.

Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, the Spokesperson at the Ministry of Health and Population, revealed that the new directive aims to address gaps in the existing health insurance program. While acknowledging the presence of the health insurance scheme, the government introduced this directive to strengthen the support for indigent citizens facing serious illnesses.

"The insurance scheme is not running effectively; therefore, a new directive is brought. It has incorporated treatment for serious illnesses of the indigent people," stated Dr. Budhathoki. The critical diseases covered by the directive include cancer, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, spinal injury, head injury, sickle cell anemia, as well as heart and kidney diseases.

The directive assigns both private and community hospitals to deliver healthcare services to indigent citizens. The distribution of designated hospitals is as follows: Koshi Province (15 hospitals), Madhes Province (9 hospitals), Bagmati Province (60 hospitals), Gandaki Province (15 hospitals), Lumbini Province (16 hospitals), Karnali Province (2 hospitals), and Sudurpaschim Province (3 hospitals).

According to the directive, individuals requiring heart transplantation will receive Rs 400,000, and those needing medication for heart-related issues will be provided Rs 100,000. Similarly, patients facing cancer, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, spinal injury, head injury, and sickle cell anemia will also receive Rs 100,000 in financial assistance.

To avail of these services, indigent citizens must produce a recommendation letter from their respective ward office. The government's initiative aims to ensure that those facing critical health conditions, particularly from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, receive the necessary medical support and financial assistance.