Government Brings Poor Citizens’ Treatment Program Under Health Insurance Board

Poor citizens in Nepal will now receive medical treatment under the coverage of the Health Insurance Board, following the government’s decision to integrate the existing Poor Citizens’ Treatment Program into the national health insurance system.

With the approval of the amended “Directive on the Operation of Poor Citizens’ Medicine and Treatment Program, 2023 (First Amendment 2025),” payments for the treatment of eight serious diseases previously managed under the Poor Citizens’ Treatment Program will now be processed through the Health Insurance Board. This move introduces a one-door system aimed at ensuring transparency, eliminating duplicate claims, and making benefits more accessible to those genuinely in need.

The revised directive also requires poor citizens to be enrolled in the national health insurance scheme to access these facilities. While the Health Insurance Board will oversee the payment process, the Department of Health Services’ Nursing and Social Security Division will remain responsible for hospital listing, monitoring, and related activities.

Health and Population Minister Pradeep Poudel said the government is committed to strengthening healthcare access for disadvantaged groups. “This integration makes the insurance program more systematic and ensures that poor citizens can receive treatment without confusion or duplication,” he stated.

Health Ministry Spokesperson Dr. Prakash Budhathoki added that the directive would also promote more efficient use of state resources. “Previously, different hospitals, departments, and local governments distributed assistance without coordination, resulting in scattered data. Now, every record will be clear, and real patients will directly benefit,” he said.