The National Joint Annual Review Report for 2023/24, released by the Government of Nepal’s Ministry of Health and Population, highlights key advancements and challenges in the health and population sector. This dynamic analysis, aligned with the Nepal Health Sector Strategic Plan (NHSSP) 2023-2030, emphasizes progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Key Achievements and Data Highlights
1. Health Infrastructure Development
- 413 Basic Hospitals Completed: Ensuring access to primary care across all provinces.
- Transition to climate-resilient, multi-hazard health facilities with updated standards.
2. Expanding Human Resources
- Implementation of the “One Doctor – One Health Facility” policy, supported by NPR 240 million funding.
- Launch of 15 DM/MCh programs, adding skilled specialists to the workforce.
- Free transportation for Female Community Health Volunteers (FCHVs) during duty travels.
3. Health Insurance Program Expansion
- Coverage increased from 33% to 39% of households and 25% to 28% of the population in 2023/24.
- New Health Insurance Strategic Roadmap aims for universal enrollment.
4. Maternal and Child Health
- Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR): Currently 151 per 100,000 live births, with disparities across provinces. For instance:
- Lumbini Province: 207 per 100,000.
- Bagmati Province: 98 per 100,000.
- Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR): Stagnant at 21 per 1,000 live births despite increased institutional deliveries (79%).
5. Digital Health Initiatives
- 52% of ambulances enrolled in a centralized national database for improved emergency response.
- Rollout of electronic medical records (EMRs) across public hospitals.
Strategic Focus for the Future
To tackle existing gaps, the NHSSP emphasizes:
- Equity in Health Access: Targeting underserved and socioeconomically disadvantaged populations.
- Enhanced Emergency Preparedness: Strengthening laboratory capacity and public health surveillance.
- Digital Innovation: Expanding the use of AI and digital platforms in healthcare services.
- Sustainable Health Financing: Introducing targeted taxes on unhealthy products like tobacco and sugar-sweetened beverages.
Call to Action
This progress report sets the stage for actionable priorities. Health professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders must collaboratively address these challenges to ensure quality, equity, and resilience in Nepal’s healthcare system.
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