'Rising healthcare costs in Nepal is due to policy, not quality'
Summary
Healthcare costs in Nepal are rising due to policy-driven input expenses and systemic issues rather than quality differences. Improving support for healthcare professionals and implementing a national digital health records system are key to affordable, ethical care.
Key Points
- Rising healthcare costs in Nepal are primarily due to policy issues affecting input costs, not quality differences.
- Import restrictions have increased prices for medical supplies, implants, and medications compared to India.
- Healthcare professionals face financial burdens including double taxation and stagnant consultation fees, impacting clinical decisions.
- Dr Neil Pande advocates for governmental support to healthcare workers and the implementation of a national digital health records system to improve care.
