Health Sector Reform
14th October 2025, Kathmandu
Doctors spearheading the Health Sector Reform Campaign have submitted a comprehensive 15-point memorandum to Prime Minister Sushila Karki.
Health Sector Reform
The document outlines essential measures for strengthening Nepal’s entire health system. The physicians also used the opportunity to voice strong support for the ‘Gen-Z’ movement.
They characterize this movement as a collective effort against systemic corruption, inequality, and the misuse of political power.
They assert that rampant irregularities and unchecked political interference have caused a sharp decline in service quality across the health sector.
Addressing Democratic and Human Rights Violations
The doctors began their plea by condemning recent actions against citizens. They stated that firing at sensitive body parts of citizens, who held legitimate demands, is inhumane.
They labeled such crowd control tactics an insult to democratic values. The group demanded an impartial investigation and immediate, decisive action against the perpetrators involved in the incident.
Their unified stance underscores the intersection of health, human rights, and good governance.
Core Demands for Governance and Corruption Control
The memorandum’s first three points focus heavily on governance and transparency. The doctors insist on the transparent and competitive procurement of all medicines and health equipment.
This measure directly addresses corruption within the health sector. They demand an immediate end to political interference in hospitals, universities, and government health bodies.
They called for strict enforcement of the Nepal Health Service Act, 2053 (1996), specifically referencing clauses that mandate the removal of health personnel involved in politics.
Furthermore, the doctors require that only independent professional organizations participate in health policy decisions.
Strategic Planning and Legal Implementation
The document highlights the need to implement existing national plans effectively. Key demands include the immediate execution of the Nepal Health Sector Strategic Plan (2022/23-2030/31) and the National Health Finance Strategy (2023-2033).
Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG-2030) for health remains a priority. The doctors also pressed for the full realization of the Public Health Service Act, 2075 (2018). This legislation guarantees citizens the right to free basic and emergency health services nationwide.
Enhancing Workforce and Resource Management
The memorandum details crucial reforms for the healthcare workforce. The doctors demanded the immediate implementation of the Dr. Tank Barakoti report to ensure safe workplaces for health professionals.
They called for standardizing service facilities and remuneration for all doctors, including interns and residents, matching the minimum government standard.
Appointments and promotions must be based solely on merit, expertise, and experience. They require a politically neutral and transparent evaluation system to reform Human Resource Management.
Technology and Access: The Role of Digital Health
Significantly, the doctors advocate for the expansion of digital health technology. They urged the government to expand telemedicine and digital health infrastructure, particularly in Primary Health Centres.
This initiative aims to ensure equal access to health services, specialist human resources, and essential equipment even in remote areas.
They also demanded greater investment in research and innovation, advocating for the Nepal Health Research Council (NHRC) to be autonomous and sustainably financed. Prioritizing youth leadership in research will foster future growth.
Education and Licensing Reforms
The memorandum proposes critical reforms for the regulatory bodies, particularly the Nepal Medical Council (NMC) and the Medical Education Commission (MEC).
They called for abolishing temporary and permanent license categories. They demanded the introduction of scholarship seats in private medical colleges for postgraduate programs (DM/MCh).
This move treats scholarships as rewards rather than a bond obligation. The doctors also strongly demanded the cancellation of the recently increased MBBS/BDS seats in private colleges.
They argue this undermines educational quality. Finally, they requested a detailed study to determine the ideal number of doctors needed to combat the brain drain.
They advocate for increasing seats in government colleges only where quality allows. The 15-point memorandum to Prime Minister clearly defines the path to true Health Sector Reform.
For more: Health Sector Reform