Meeting with Ministry of Health and Population

Meeting with Ministry of Health and Population Officials, Officials from the Health Insurance Board and Social Security Fund

Location: National Health Training Center

Background Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) Nepal:

MoHP is the governmental body responsible for formulating and implementing health policies and programs in Nepal. It has evolved over the years, with its formal establishment as a crucial ministry for public health in the early years following the democratic transition in Nepal. Its primary mission is to ensure accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare services for all citizens, particularly focusing on vulnerable and marginalized populations.

Key Tasks:

1. Policy Formulation: Develops health policies and strategies to improve public health outcomes.

2. Health Programs: Manages national health programs, including maternal and child health, communicable diseases, and health insurance initiatives.

3. Emergency Response: Coordinates responses to public health emergencies and disease outbreaks, such as COVID-19.

MoHP works in collaboration with various stakeholders, including national and international organizations such as GIZ and ILO, NGOs, and local governments, to enhance health service delivery. In recent years, the MoHP has emphasized the integration of digital health solutions such as openIMIS and the strengthening of health infrastructure across the country.

The “Digital Blueprint” of the MoHP focuses on leveraging digital technology to improve health services, enhance data management, and provide better care for the population. One challenge is the health financing aspects – MoHP uses openIMIS to improve the efficiency.

In 2021/22, the allocated budget for the MoHP was approximately NPR 35 billion (around USD 300 million), reflecting the government's commitment to improving health services.

Healthcare Facilities:

• As of 2021, Nepal had over 3,500 health facilities operating at different levels, including primary health care centers, community hospitals, and district hospitals.

• The ratio of hospital beds per 1,000 people is around 0.9, indicating the need for further development in health infrastructure.

Welcome and presentation by MoHP followed by presentation by openIMIS, GIZ Nepal Office, DCI, and introduction by the delegations of Zambia, Senegal and Ethiopia.

Q&A:

…..on differentiation of private and public sector in health and social security in Nepal

• Public hospitals must meet specific criteria to be included in health insurance schemes, particularly as part of the national health insurance program introduced by the government.

• Public hospitals must be licensed and accredited by the Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP). This ensures that they comply with national health standards and regulations.

• Hospitals are required to adhere to specific quality standards set by the MoHP, which involves the establishment of protocols for patient care, safety, and clinical governance.

• Public hospitals need to have a functioning data management system to record patient information, treatment details, and claims for insurance reimbursement systems like openIMIS

• Private hospitals also need to meet specific criteria to participate in health insurance schemes, similar to those for public hospitals, but with some additional considerations

• In Nepal there are more private hospitals than public ones

…..on “leave no behind” and social and health security for Nepali migrant workers

• approximately 3,5 million Nepali migrant workers are working abroad. Migration for employment has become a significant aspect of Nepal's economy, with many individuals seeking job opportunities in countries such as Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Malaysia, and various other nations.

• Nepali migrant workers often face unique challenges when it comes to accessing health insurance and protection

• The Government of Nepal has introduced various health insurance schemes to provide coverage for migrant workers. These schemes aim to ensure that they have access to essential health services, both domestically and abroad.

• Migrant workers can access health services at public health facilities in Nepal, where they can receive care regardless of their previous employment abroad.

• Foreign Employment Welfare Fund provides insurance coverage for accidental death, disability, and medical treatment to Nepali migrant workers. The insurance is funded through a fee that workers pay before departing Nepal for employment.

• However, many migrant workers are unaware of the health insurance schemes available to them or how to access healthcare services when needed.

• Many refugees in Nepal have access to free basic health services provided by NGOs and community health workers. These services include preventive care, treatment for common illnesses, and access to emergency healthcare.

• Refugees can access health services at hospitals in emergencies without upfront payment. However, it may depend on if the hospital is a public facility or a private one.

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