30 per cent of national budget needed in health sector: Health Minister

KATHMANDU, FEBRUARY 28: Minister for Health and Population, Pradip Paudel, emphasized that ensuring citizens' access to healthcare services requires increased investment in the health sector.

Speaking at a discussion session on "People's Access to Health Services" during the ongoing 12th Nepal Literature Festival in Pokhara, Minister Paudel noted that Nepal has an inadequate number of hospitals and healthcare professionals relative to its population.

He pointed out that while human resources have increased in the Nepali Army, Nepal Police, and civil service, there has been no significant rise in the healthcare sector, which is both essential and sensitive.

To guarantee citizens' constitutional right to healthcare, he stressed the need for greater investment in health infrastructure, human resources, and medical equipment, proposing that at least 30 percent of the total budget be allocated to the sector.

Minister Paudel also highlighted the need to reform the health insurance program by eliminating existing irregularities. He acknowledged the challenges in implementing certain healthcare programs that were introduced without securing adequate resources.

Reaffirming the government's commitment to providing quality and accessible healthcare, he emphasized the importance of systemic reforms. He acknowledged that while policies are in place, some projects remain unimplemented due to resource constraints.

He concluded by stressing the need for long-term solutions to the challenges in the health sector through increased investment and strategic planning.