12 August 2024, Kathmandu
Nepal Health Minister Pradeep Paudel has unveiled a bold plan to increase Nepal’s health insurance coverage from the current limit of 1 lakh rupees to a substantial 5 lakh rupees.
Nepal Health Minister Proposes Boost to Health Insurance
The announcement comes as part of a comprehensive action plan aimed at expanding the scope and improving the quality of health services in the country.
According to the action plan, the existing health insurance coverage will be significantly broadened, with enhancements designed to streamline the service delivery process. Minister Paudel emphasized that the new policy will not only increase coverage but also make the system more systematic and scientific, ensuring a more effective approach to health insurance.
The action plan outlines several key reforms, including a review of the Health Insurance Act to better incorporate both formal and informal sectors into the compulsory health insurance scheme. This review aims to create a premium and co-payment system that is more aligned with income levels, thereby making it fairer and more accessible.
One of the major changes proposed is the implementation of a real-time claims system. This will involve modifying the insurance management information system within health insurance and social security programs to facilitate quicker and more efficient claims processing. Additionally, the plan includes efforts to standardize fees across health institutions affiliated with the insurance program and to introduce co-payments as a measure to curb unnecessary treatments.
To fund the expanded insurance coverage, Minister Paudel has proposed a novel approach: the imposition of a sugar tax. This tax will be levied on food and beverages containing high amounts of sugar. The revenue generated from this tax will be directed towards supporting the health insurance scheme, thereby ensuring the necessary financial resources for its expansion.
Furthermore, the action plan includes a provision to integrate all free treatment programs excluding emergencies—into the health insurance framework. This means that the insurance will cover the cost of treatments, eliminating out-of-pocket expenses for citizens.
Minister Paudel’s initiative reflects a significant commitment to improving healthcare access and quality in Nepal. By addressing both funding and coverage, the proposed reforms aim to create a more robust and equitable health insurance system that benefits all segments of the population.
Nepal Health Minister Proposes Boost to Health Insurance