Historic Leap in Health: 14 Major Initiatives in Policy and Programs

Nepal Health News, Kathmandu – While presenting the fiscal policy for 2082/83 (2025/26), President Ram Chandra Paudel emphasized the health sector as a top priority in the Federal Parliament.

To materialize the vision of “Nirogi Nepal” (Healthy Nepal), the government has brought forward several innovative and impactful programs. Below are the major health-related initiatives:

1. Establishment of an Advanced Neuroscience Center in Kathmandu
A National Neuroscience Center will be established in Kathmandu for the treatment of brain, spinal, and mental health disorders. The center will be equipped with advanced technologies and expert services.

2. Treatment of Critical Illnesses under Health Insurance
The government has decided to include critical illnesses under the health insurance scheme. This will provide relief to thousands of patients who are deprived of treatment due to financial burdens.

3. Restructuring of the Insurance Board
To enhance the effectiveness and transparency of health insurance, the Insurance Board will be institutionally restructured.

4. Introduction of an Integrated Health Service System
An integrated health service system will be implemented across the country. It aims to improve service quality, eliminate duplication, and make healthcare more accessible.

5. Domestic Production of Essential and Basic Medicines
The government will encourage the domestic production of essential medicines. This is expected to reduce dependence on imports and lower costs.

6. General Nursing Program to Address Workforce Shortages
A general nursing program will be launched to fulfill the need for human resources in the health sector, with a focus on reaching services down to the local level.

7. Formulation of Federal Health Service Act and Quality Accreditation Act
To strengthen the healthcare system legally, the government will draft the Federal Health Service Act and the National Quality Accreditation Act.

8. Expansion of Burn Treatment Services in All Seven Provinces
Intensive burn treatment services will be expanded across all seven provinces, ensuring timely treatment for accident victims.

9. Specialist Services in Remote Areas
To ensure healthcare access, specialist services will be provided in remote districts in collaboration with medical colleges and institutions.

10. Falgun Month to Be Designated as ‘Non-Communicable Disease Screening Month’
The government has declared the month of Falgun as a special month for screening and consultation on non-communicable diseases—a vital public health initiative.

11. Expansion of Cancer and Kidney Services
Cancer treatment services and kidney transplant programs will be expanded in all seven provinces. This includes plans for necessary infrastructure and human resource development.

12. Free Cancer Treatment for Children Under 14
The government will provide free cancer treatment for children under the age of 14 as a step toward social justice in healthcare.

13. Free HPV Vaccines – Protection Against Cervical Cancer
To ensure women's health, the government has included the HPV vaccine in the regular immunization program and will provide it free of charge.

14. Expansion of Insurance Program to Cover Advanced Services
Under the new policy, the health insurance scheme will be extended to include serious illnesses, specialized services, and long-term treatments.

Conclusion: Policy Must Go Beyond Paper to Practical Implementation
These initiatives indicate a clear move toward a modern, accessible, and inclusive healthcare system in Nepal. What’s needed now is quality implementation, strong political commitment, and active public participation