Kathmandu: The Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) has made it compulsory for economically disadvantaged citizens to enroll in the national health insurance program in order to receive free treatment for eight types of critical illnesses.
Under the new rule, effective from October 18, impoverished families must register in the insurance scheme to access treatment support for heart disease, kidney disease, cancer, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, spinal injuries, head injuries, and sickle cell anemia.
Previously, individuals holding identity cards under the impoverished category were eligible for free treatment of these illnesses without insurance enrollment. The MoHP said the change is intended to integrate social health protection programs under a one-door system.
The decision follows the endorsement of the Guideline for Operating the Medication and Treatment Program for Impoverished Citizens, 2080 (First Amendment 2082). As per the revised guideline, the Health Insurance Board will bear the full cost of treatment support for enrolled citizens.
MoHP spokesperson Dr. Prakash Budhathoki confirmed that the benefit will now only be available through the insurance program. “Enrollment is mandatory for all impoverished citizens, and a directive has been issued to ensure current beneficiaries are registered by the deadline,” he said.
The ministry has instructed the Health Insurance Board and the Nursing and Social Security Division to enforce the rule.