June 21: Minister for Health and Population, Mohan Bahadur Basnet, has pledged to submit a proposal to the Council of Ministers to raise taxes on tobacco products.

During a meeting with a delegation from the Health and Population Department of the CPN (UML), the Minister emphasized that the increased taxes would be allocated towards providing medical treatment for individuals who cannot afford the cost.

Minister Basnet acknowledged that the current tax rates on tobacco products are lower than the standards set by the World Health Organization.  By raising taxes, the prices of tobacco products would increase, potentially reducing consumption. The revenue generated from these taxes would be utilized to establish a fund to support the medical needs of the underprivileged community.

Expressing concerns over the emigration of medical professionals, Minister Basnet highlighted the challenges faced by doctors and nurses who leave Nepal in search of better remuneration and facilities abroad. The government has already issued a directive to allocate 10 percent of hospital beds for the treatment of needy patients. Violations of this directive will be subject to punishment.

Furthermore, the government is actively working to recall 800 employees who are currently serving in different positions on deputation within the Ministry.  Krishna Gopal Shrestha, the Chief of the Health and Population Department of the CPN-UML and a lawmaker, submitted an 11-point memorandum to the Minister.

The memorandum emphasizes the importance of delivering quality healthcare services to citizens and outlines various demands, including the proper implementation of the provision for 10 percent free treatment in hospitals.

The memorandum of the understanding demands for improved access to healthcare for chronic diseases, effective implementation of the health insurance program, and the establishment of basic health facilities at 396 local levels.

Other demands include accessible dialysis and surgery services, the swift enactment of the Federal Health Service Act, and the promotion of safety for healthcare professionals.

The memorandum also stresses the necessity of government initiatives to prevent diseases such as diarrhea, measles, and dengue, as well as preparedness for water-induced disasters.

Minister Basnet acknowledged the concerns raised in the memorandum and assured the delegation that the government would take appropriate action to address these issues effectively. (RSS)