Ensure health services to all citizens: President

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Mar. 5: President Ramchandra Paudel has emphasised the need to provide equal access to healthcare for all citizens and to improve the quality of medical services as per the spirit of the constitution.

Addressing a programme organised by the Nepal Medical Association here on Tuesday, he said that the nation’s investment in producing skilled and expert doctors aligns with the constitutional spirit of equity and welfare. “I am confident that doctors will approach this profession from a service-oriented perspective, embracing the spirit and essence of the constitution,” said President Paudel.

He underscored that Nepal’s federal democratic republican constitution, achieved through immense struggle and sacrifice, ensures necessities such as healthcare and education to all citizens.

He pointed out that many people in the remote areas still lack access to adequate healthcare services, stressing the urgency of addressing this issue. “It is crucial to take this situation seriously and ensure that skilled and expert doctors are available in every corner of the country. On this special occasion, I also call upon everyone to contribute to the overall development of the health sector from their respective fields,” said President Paudel.

He acknowledged that Nepal's health education sector was progressing and the country is successfully producing skilled medical professionals. He also shared his personal experience of receiving quality healthcare services in Nepal. However, he expressed concern over the increasing trend of doctors seeking opportunities abroad, attributing it to a lack of adequate opportunities within the country. 

President Paudel said that despite improvements in healthcare, complaints persist that medical professionals are not receiving sufficient opportunities. He also said that the exodus of doctors is a matter of concern and the relevant authorities must take appropriate measures to address it. 

President Paudel further noted that the role of the Nepal Medical Association would be even more significant in the days ahead in ensuring quality healthcare and enhancing the country's medical sector. On the occasion, he honoured Dr. Gauri Shankar Lal Das, Dr. Mrigendra Raj Pandey, Dr. Dinesh Nath Gangel, Dr. DB Karki and Dr. Saraswati Padhyeya with the Legend in Medicine Award.