Government health insurance scheme nears collapse as hospitals halt services
Summary
Nepal's government health insurance scheme is nearing collapse as many state hospitals halt or limit services due to financial strains and unpaid dues, affecting millions of insured patients.
Key Points
- Nepal's government health insurance scheme is collapsing as major hospitals stop or limit services due to financial issues.
- Hospitals claim unpaid dues totaling Rs 16 billion, delaying reimbursement and cutting services offered under the insurance program.
- Over 10 million people are covered by the scheme, but patients face discrimination, long waits, and forced payments for medicines and services.
- The Health Insurance Board is seeking Rs 6 billion from the Finance Ministry to alleviate reimbursement delays and restore services.