Kathmandu: Minister of Health and Population, Pradeep Paudel, has proposed collaboration with hospitals operated by security agencies to reduce the patient burden in government hospitals.
During a meeting with the Inspector General of Police, senior military officials, and heads of health services run by security forces, Minister Paudel suggested utilizing vacant operation wards in these hospitals to provide services to patients during high-demand periods in government facilities.
“We are working to manage patient load by adding shifts in federal hospitals and extending working hours,” said Minister Paudel. “Support us by exploring how patients can be referred to security agency hospitals when government hospitals are overwhelmed.”
The minister also sought suggestions on making services, not currently available to the general public, accessible at government rates. Additionally, he requested input on improving the effectiveness of the health insurance program in security agency hospitals.
Last week, Minister Paudel formed a task force led by Additional Secretary Dr. Tanka Barakoti to outline a framework for cooperation between the Ministry of Health and security agency hospitals. The initiative aims to provide treatment assistance and better manage the patient load in government hospitals.
The meeting was attended by Inspector General of Police Basanta Kunwar and senior officials from the Nepali Army.
Minister Paudel praised the Nepali Army for its role in providing emergency services, including maternity care for pregnant women in critical conditions.
“We are open to collaborating with the Army for air ambulance services,” he said. “This can save lives in emergencies and ensure timely treatment for those in remote areas.”
He also commended the Army for its efforts in treating snakebite cases in the Terai region and emphasized the Ministry’s willingness to work closely with the Army to leverage its expertise for public health services.
The proposals aim to enhance healthcare delivery by integrating the resources of security agency hospitals and addressing critical gaps in emergency and specialized care.