Preparation underway to rename 44 health centers in Koshi Province

Nepal Health News, Biratnagar – The names of 44 health service centers under the Koshi Provincial Government are set to be changed. The renaming process, which aims to reflect the identity of the province, has reached its final stage.

This decision includes 14 district Ayurvedic centers, 16 hospitals, and 14 district health offices across the province. The Ministry of Health is preparing to present the proposal to the Cabinet by the end of the Nepali month of Shrawan (mid-August).

According to the Health Ministry, the word "District" will be removed and replaced with "Province." For instance, "District Hospital Dhankuta" will be renamed "Provincial Hospital Dhankuta." Similarly, "Health Offices" will be renamed "Provincial Public Health Offices."

Key institutions like the Madan Bhandari Trauma Center in Urlabari, Morang; the Shailaja Acharya Heart Disease Center in Biratnagar; and the Provincial Ayurvedic Hospital in Jhapa are also set to undergo name changes.

This move is expected to clarify which level of government is providing health services. According to Health Minister Bhupendra Rai, including the term "Province" in the names will make it easier for service seekers to identify the service provider.

Currently, the ministry is collecting necessary data through an O&M (Organization and Management) survey. The Ministry of Law has already given positive feedback, while the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Planning has provided conditional suggestions.

Once the name changes are approved, signboards, logos, stamps, and official correspondence will be updated accordingly. This is expected to bring clarity to administrative, technical, and budget management processes.

This renaming process is not merely a formality—it is part of a broader effort to strengthen the institutional identity of the provincial government. Implementation will begin immediately after approval in the upcoming Cabinet meeting.