Nepal Migrant Worker Health Program: Free Checkups & Mental Health
22nd April 2025, Kathmandu
The Nepali government has introduced a new program to address the health needs of migrant workers returning from abroad. Health and Population Minister Pradip Poudel announced this initiative during a recent visit to Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Nepal Migrant Worker Health Program
The aim is to provide comprehensive health tests and mental health counseling to workers who have returned from foreign employment.
Dedicated Health Services at Shahid Dharma Bhakta Center
Under this new initiative, the Shahid Dharma Bhakta National Transplant Center will open a special free OPD ward for returning migrant workers. This facility will allow workers to undergo health checks free of charge.
Dr. Pukar Chandra Shrestha, the center’s executive director, confirmed that any returning worker can visit the center for a free health test. This move is expected to provide immediate health care support for workers facing health issues after returning to Nepal.
Focus on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)
In addition to health testing, the center will also focus on preventive care. Workers preparing for foreign employment will receive training on how to avoid non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
The Ministry of Labor, Employment, and Social Security will organize orientation sessions for workers, where medical experts will provide information on preventing diseases like hypertension and diabetes. These sessions will help workers understand how to protect their health while working abroad.
Furthermore, the Foreign Employment Board will distribute informational materials about NCDs to workers before they leave. This effort aims to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining good health during foreign employment.
Remote Health Consultations for Workers Abroad
For workers currently abroad, the government will establish a helpline and online consultation system. This will allow migrant workers to consult with medical officers via phone or social media. The service is intended to help workers resolve health issues remotely, ensuring that they receive timely advice and support, even when they are not in Nepal.
Affordable Health Reports for Workers Going Abroad
In addition to services for returnees, the Shahid Dharma Bhakta Center will provide affordable health testing reports for workers who are preparing to leave for foreign employment.
These reports will help ensure that workers meet the health requirements of their destination countries. The center will charge only for the cost of the tests, making them accessible to all.
Expected Impact on Workers’ Health
The government believes these measures will lead to significant improvements in the health of migrant workers. Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, the Ministry’s spokesperson, stated that the initiative will reduce the health issues workers face, both before and after their employment abroad. The program aims to improve workers’ overall well-being by offering both preventive and therapeutic care.
Minister Pradip Poudel has long been concerned about the health challenges faced by migrant workers. With this new initiative, the government hopes to provide better health support, both in Nepal and abroad.
The Shahid Dharma Bhakta Center’s involvement is seen as a key step toward achieving this goal. The Ministry is confident that these efforts will result in healthier migrant workers, benefiting both the workers themselves and the wider community.
For more: Nepal Migrant Worker Health Program
