Kathmandu: Minister for Health and Population, Pradip Paudel, has emphasized the need for a legal provision that makes the government responsible for managing health insurance for Nepali citizens, particularly those living below the poverty line. According to the latest statistics, around 18 percent of Nepal’s population falls under this category.

Speaking on the issue, Minister Paudel welcomed a proposal of public importance registered in the House of Representatives by lawmaker Dr. Sunil Kumar Sharma. The proposal focuses on guaranteeing health reforms and ensuring accessible medical treatment for all. Minister Paudel highlighted that the government must ensure access to health insurance for people living in poverty. He pointed out that Nepal has approximately 6.6 million households, which should be compulsorily linked to health insurance schemes. While wealthier citizens can afford health insurance independently, he stressed that the government must step in to provide this essential service to those in need.

The Health Minister further informed that the Ministry had already drafted a proposal to introduce a contribution-based health insurance system, aiming to secure sustainable resources to fund it. Currently, health insurance programs are being implemented across all 753 local levels in Nepal. There are 484 service providers involved in the scheme, including 403 government hospitals, 48 private hospitals, and 33 community hospitals.

However, Minister Paudel acknowledged that there is no stable source of funding for health insurance and that regular income to sustain the program has yet to be ensured. To address this issue, he proposed establishing a dedicated insurance fund to manage and stabilize the scheme. The government, he assured, is committed to taking strict action against those who misuse the health insurance system.