Resident Doctors Call Off Protest Following Agreement with Health Ministry

Nepal Health News, Kathmandu — The ongoing protest by resident doctors demanding allowances and other benefits has been called off following an agreement with the Ministry of Health. According to Dr. Sanjeev Tiwari, President of the Nepal Medical Association (NMA), the decision to suspend the protest was made after a four-point agreement was reached.

The agreement was signed by Dr. Bhim Prasad Sapkota on behalf of the Ministry and Dr. Tiwari representing the NMA.

The key points of the agreement are as follows:

1. Living Allowance for Resident Doctors in Private Medical Colleges:
As per the decision of the 16th meeting of the Medical Education Commission held on Magh 25 (February), all resident doctors enrolled in postgraduate programs at private medical colleges will be entitled to the same eighth-level living allowance as those in public teaching institutions. Relevant bodies will be directed to implement this.

2. Formation of a Task Force to Improve Working Conditions:
A task force will be formed to submit recommendations within 15 working days on issues including leave policies, duty hours, and additional benefits for resident doctors.

3. Uniformity in Matching and Admission Processes:
In line with the decision of the 18th meeting of the Medical Education Commission, the Ministry will coordinate with concerned stakeholders to implement a unified matching and admission system for medical students.

4. Withdrawal of Protest and Resumption of Services:
With this agreement in place, the Nepal Medical Association has decided to immediately end all protest programs and ensure that all doctors return to their regular duties.

The agreement is expected to address longstanding grievances and help restore normalcy in the delivery of healthcare services.