Expert group suggests upgrading Karnali Provincial Hospital

By Lalit Basel,Surkhet, Mar. 18: A committee formed by the Karnali provincial government to improve the provincial hospital in Surkhet and the overall health sector in Karnali Province has submitted a report to the provincial government, outlining five options. 

The committee, led by senior cardiologist Dr. Bhagwan Koirala, on Sunday submitted the report to Chief Minister Yamalal Kandel. The report was prepared after four months of study and discussions.

Presenting the report, Dr. Koirala said that one of the five proposed options includes upgrading the provincial hospital in Surkhet into an academic and educational institution. 

He explained that the report outlines recommendations regarding manpower, infrastructure, challenges and opportunities to enhance healthcare services across Karnali and improve the provincial hospital in Surkhet. 

However, he did not disclose the other options publicly. Dr. Koirala informed that the report was prepared after a thorough review of national, international and provincial policies and by incorporating ideas from consultations and feedback gathered over four months. 

Dr. Koirala informed that among the five proposed options, the provincial government should prioritise the one that was most feasible based on its capacity and budget. 

He also highlighted the strong potential for upgrading the Provincial Hospital in Surkhet into an academic institution with teaching and learning facilities. 

Receiving the report, Chief Minister Yamalal Kandel expressed gratitude to the committee for its in-depth study and report. 

He also committed to reviewing the recommendations to improve the provincial hospital and the broader health sector in Karnali and implementing them in a way that benefits everyone. 

Stating that Karnali must deliver extensive services with its available resources, Chief Minister Kandel assured that the report would be implemented sustainably. 

Four months ago, the provincial government formed a five-member study committee under the coordination of Dr. Koirala. The committee included Dr. Arjun Karki from Patan Academy, Dr. Suresh Tiwari, Provincial Hospital Director Dr. Keshar Dhakal, Dr. Bikash KC and Dr. Nawaraj KC as members.