Nepal Free Healthcare: Cancer Treatment for Children, Hemophilia, Paralysis, Burns
17th April 2025, Kathmandu
The Government of Nepal has started providing free treatment for six serious illnesses. The Ministry of Health and Population announced the move this week. The goal is to ease the financial burden on patients and improve access to life-saving care.
Nepal Free Healthcare
First, the program covers children under 14 diagnosed with cancer. These young patients will receive full treatment without any cost. Cancer care is expensive and not affordable for many families. The government hopes this step will save lives and reduce pressure on parents.
Second, the initiative includes free medication for hemophilia. This is a rare genetic disorder where blood doesn’t clot normally. The treatment is very costly and requires regular injections. Now, those in need will get the necessary medicine for free.
Third, the government is offering free drugs for paralysis patients. These are high-cost and often unavailable to those in rural or low-income areas. The new policy ensures patients with paralysis can access vital medicines across the country.
In addition, burn victims will benefit from the program. Both emergency and long-term treatments are now available at no cost. The government has also introduced specialized burn treatment services in all seven provinces. People with poor financial backgrounds will be prioritized.
So far, the policy is in effect and being implemented through health centers and hospitals. Local governments and provincial health offices are helping in this process.
This announcement came after Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) lawmaker Shishir Khanal raised a question in Parliament. He asked about the status of free healthcare policies. In response, Minister for Health and Population Pradeep Paudel confirmed that the treatment program for six major diseases is already active.
The Ministry estimates an annual cost of about Rs 4.5 billion. While this is a significant investment, officials believe it is necessary. The program aims to protect low-income groups from high medical costs. It also supports the national goal of universal health coverage.
Health Minister Paudel stated that this plan reflects the government’s long-term commitment to healthcare. “We want to make sure no citizen is denied treatment because of money,” he said.
Moreover, the Ministry is working to improve coordination among hospitals. Health workers are receiving training to handle specialized cases. Supply chains for medicines and medical equipment are also being strengthened.
Public response has been positive. Many have praised the government’s efforts to prioritize health. Patient advocacy groups and social organizations welcomed the decision. They called it a “bold and necessary step” toward social justice.
In summary, Nepal has taken a strong step by offering free treatment for six critical illnesses. The government plans to invest heavily to support this policy. If properly implemented, this program could save thousands of lives every year and bring real relief to struggling families.
For more: Nepal Free Healthcare
