Public Health Service Act, 2075 (2018)
जनस्वास्थ्य सेवा ऐन, २०७५
Issued by Parliament of Nepal · 2018
In short: The main law that turns the constitutional right to health into services: free basic health care, emergency treatment, quality standards and citizens' rights.
Overview
Article 35 of the Constitution of Nepal (2015) makes free basic health services and emergency care a fundamental right. The Public Health Service Act, 2075 sets out how that right works in practice. It defines basic health services, makes the federal, provincial and local governments responsible for providing them, and sets rules for every health institution, public or private.
Key provisions
- Every citizen can get basic health services free of charge from government health institutions.
- No health institution may refuse emergency treatment. The first treatment must be given before any payment is asked for.
- Basic services include immunisation, maternal and newborn care, family planning, common communicable and non-communicable disease care, mental health, geriatric care, emergency care and health promotion.
- Health institutions need a licence and must meet quality and infrastructure standards.
- Patients have rights to information, privacy, consent and to complain about poor care.
- Local governments manage basic health service delivery under federalism.
Why it matters
This Act is the legal base for free basic services, emergency care obligations and quality regulation. Most later health regulations, standards and local health laws refer back to it.
What it means for practitioners
- Know which services count as basic health services so patients are not charged for them.
- Document emergency treatment given before payment. It is a legal duty.
- Follow informed consent and confidentiality rules in daily practice.
Frequently asked questions
Is emergency treatment free under the Public Health Service Act?
The Act requires every health institution to provide emergency treatment without first demanding payment. Defined basic emergency services are free at government facilities.
Who provides basic health services in Nepal?
Local governments (municipalities and rural municipalities) deliver basic health services, with support and standards from the provincial and federal governments.
Related guides
Editorial summary by PHC-Nepal for education only. It is not legal advice. Laws may be amended, so always check the official text.