PM Karki vows resolving problems related to health insurance scheme

Kathmandu, Feb 4: Prime Minister Sushila Karki has expressed commitment that the government would address the problems facing the health insurance scheme. Financial resources would be managed for it, she pledged.     

During a discussion related to health insurance programme at the Office of the Prime Minister on Wednesday, PM Karki mentioned that the government was committed to continuing the health insurance service despite financial crisis, implementing one-door system, and making strong regulation. Resources would be assured immediately, according to her.     

She clarified that health insurance should be continued even by borrowing loan or managing other resources.     

"She, however, emphasized the monetary incentive for the health checkup and treatment should be continued especially for the senior citizens, disabled persons, Dalits, and the people from poor and marginalized communities."     

She argued, "Currently, 1.617 million people have been aligned with health insurance service. It is possible from the tax paid by 30 million people. The service must reach the targeted groups."     

On the occasion, Vice-Chairperson of the National Planning Commission, Dr Prakash Kumar Shrestha, suggested government that it made some changes on health insurance scheme.     

Resources management could be possible by integrating distribution-oriented welfare programmes by removing duplication with contribution-based social security fund, he prescribed.     

Likewise, Chairperson of the National Natural Resources and Fiscal Commission, Juddha Bahadur Gurung, stressed the need of making policy-level reforms and removing duplication for effective implementation of such social programme focused on people's health.(RSS)