Nepal's health insurance system is on the brink: The new government has one chance to fix it
Summary
Nepal's public health insurance, covering just 24% of the population, is nearing insolvency due to structural flaws. The new government led by Balendra Shah must urgently implement reforms including mandatory enrollment and provider payment to prevent collapse.
Key Points
- Nepal's public health insurance system covers only 24% of the population with high out-of-pocket expenses leading to poverty.
- The health insurance program is on track for insolvency within 3-5 years due to a flawed voluntary enrollment model.
- Hospitals face payment delays leading to provider withdrawal and increased out-of-pocket costs for patients.
- The new government has a political mandate and an opportunity to implement mandatory enrollment, clear payment backlogs, and reform premiums to save the health insurance system.
