KATHMANDU, Oct 18: Minister for Health and Population Pradip Paudel affirmed on Friday that the ministry has started implementing the demands for healthcare reforms raised by Dr Govinda KC.
During a discussion with the doctor held at the ministry on Friday, Minister Pradip Paudel claimed that he has always supported the healthcare reforms proposed by Dr KC. He said that since taking office, the ministry has initiated further steps to address the demands raised by the veteran medical doctor.
“Our 14-point plan and priorities that we made public included many aspects of healthcare reform,” Minister Paudel said, “Some of the aspects have already been implemented, while the rest, which includes issues raised by Dr KC, are in the process of being implemented.”
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Similarly, Minister Paudel said that efforts are underway to increase the number of specialist doctors by expanding the intake capacity of government medical colleges. He also informed that decisions have been implemented to start MBBS programs at Pokhara Academy of Health Sciences and Rapti Academy of Health Sciences.
At the discussion, Minister Paudel added that under his own leadership, the National Academy of Medical Sciences has recently approved a doctor staffing plan to produce additional postgraduate doctors, in line with the demands raised by Dr KC regarding skilled medical personnel and quality hospitals outside the valley.
Expressing his grievances regarding the fact that it is not possible to immediately increase the number of doctor positions, Minister Paudel mentioned that services have started in two shifts at the federal hospital, allowing existing doctors to provide more services. He stated that this could help reduce the problem of government doctors needing to work in private hospitals and clinics.
Dr KC expressed optimism that past commitments would be fulfilled and urged the minister to expedite efforts to prevent the migration of skilled doctors.
Minister Paudel assured the veteran doctor that arrangements are being made to enhance the facilities and services for doctors, and he will make every effort in this regard. He also mentioned that he is preparing to introduce a health service act to address the issues faced by healthcare professionals.
“We are working to bring a health service act to evaluate the role and contributions of medical services” he said, “The act will also address a number of issues faced by medical practitioners.”
