10th March 2025, Kathmandu
Bir Hospital, one of Nepal’s oldest and most renowned healthcare institutions, has launched two-shift surgery services to address the rising number of patients. Until now, surgeries were performed during a single shift, but with the increasing patient load, the hospital has expanded its operations.
Bir Hospital Two-Shift Surgeries
The new system will accommodate a wide range of surgeries, including ENT (ear, nose, throat), dental services, urology, and general surgeries, which will now be available in both day and night shifts. This strategic move aims to meet the growing demand for healthcare and ensure timely treatment for patients, reducing waiting times and enhancing service delivery.
Addressing the Growing Patient Numbers
Dr. Samaj Gautam, the acting director of Bir Hospital, explained that this move was made to ensure that more patients can access timely surgeries. “We are starting with services that have high patient volume, and this will help provide better care and reduce waiting times,” he said. The hospital aims to expand its capacity and ensure efficient services for patients.
Following Government Guidelines
This step aligns with the directives from the Ministry of Health and Population, which recommended that all federal hospitals extend their operational hours by introducing two-shift systems for OPD services. Dr. Gautam said, “We have designed our work plan based on the government’s guidance, ensuring we provide better access to healthcare for the public.”
Gradual Expansion of Services
Currently, Bir Hospital has started two-shift surgeries in departments experiencing the highest patient loads. These include ENT, dental, urology, and general surgeries. Dr. Gautam shared that, over time, they plan to extend this system to more departments. Internal resources and manpower were managed to implement this initiative, allowing the hospital to offer increased services with the existing workforce.
Better Access to Healthcare for Patients
The new system ensures that more patients can be treated without facing long waiting times. Dr. Gautam emphasized that the expanded hours will allow the hospital to handle more cases and provide timely treatment. Since taking over as acting director, Dr. Gautam had announced his intention to launch two-shift surgeries within a week, and the hospital has successfully implemented this plan.
Future Plans for Service Expansion
As part of the hospital’s strategy to improve healthcare delivery, Dr. Gautam confirmed that other departments would be gradually added to the two-shift system. This expansion will help manage the growing number of patients while maintaining the quality of care. Bir Hospital also continues to provide services during public holidays and extended hours to meet the healthcare needs of the community.
The introduction of two-shift surgeries marks an important step for Bir Hospital in improving healthcare accessibility and ensuring that more patients can receive prompt medical attention. The hospital remains committed to adapting to the increasing demand for healthcare services.
For more: Bir Hospital Two-Shift Surgeries