Health Minister Cites Financial Imbalance as Major Hurdle for Health Insurance Program Effectiveness

Kathmandu. Minister for Health and Population Dr. Sudha Sharma Gautam stated that financial imbalance and delays in claim payments have added challenges to making the health insurance program effective. She clarified the serious problems facing the insurance sector during a press conference organized on Sunday marking three months since she took charge of the ministry.

According to Minister Gautam, the system has not been as successful as envisioned due to the high participation of individuals with significant health risks in health insurance, excessive consumption of services, and weaknesses in claims management. She mentioned that although insurance reform has been a priority since she assumed office, various technical and administrative complications have hindered progress. However, she provided an update that the O&M survey report for the Health Insurance Board has been prepared and reached the final stage of approval.

Minister Gautam noted that while skilled manpower is available for quality health services, improvements are difficult due to a lack of physical infrastructure and outdated structures. She asserted that during her tenure, she is prioritizing the treatment of martyrs from the 'JanaYuddha' (People's War), maternal and newborn health, health security for migrant workers abroad, and the improvement of drug laboratories.

She specifically mentioned that special programs have been launched in Lumbini, Karnali, Gandaki, and Madhesh provinces due to high rates of maternal mortality in those regions. Minister Gautam committed that in the coming days, service delivery will be centered on winning citizens' trust by making the health system transparent and accountable.