Mar 12, Kathmandu - The Health Insurance Board has issued a directive to all hospitals and health institutions, instructing them not to allow insured patients to purchase medicines from outside sources during treatment.

According to Board spokesperson Bikesh Malla, a circular has been issued to all healthcare facilities emphasizing that insured patients should not be compelled to buy medicines or medicinal supplies from external pharmacies. This move comes after reports surfaced of some hospitals forcing insured patients to purchase medicines outside the hospital as part of treatment packages.

Malla explained, “We have received complaints that some hospitals are making insured patients buy medicines from outside pharmacies after providing treatment. Therefore, we have issued a directive to all hospitals to prevent such practices.”

He further stated that hospitals are currently requiring patients to purchase medicines included in insurance packages either from the hospital itself or from external pharmacies with cash, which violates existing regulations.

The spokesperson highlighted that such practices are against the Health Insurance Act 2075, the Health Insurance Regulations 2075, and relevant directives and procedures. Hospitals found forcing patients to buy medicines outside the designated facilities may face disciplinary action in accordance with Regulation 18, Subsection 1, Clause (a) of the Health Insurance Regulations 2075.

Under the health insurance scheme, families of up to five members are eligible for health services worth up to NPR 100,000 with a contribution of NPR 3,500. Additional contributions of NPR 700 per member allow for further coverage of up to NPR 20,000 per individual.