Kathmandu: The 10th Health Insurance Day is being celebrated today with a variety of programs highlighting the theme ‘State Investment, Citizen’s Contribution: Health Insurance Joint Campaign’.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the health insurance program is a significant social security initiative introduced by the government to provide financial protection against unforeseen health-related expenses. This initiative, which began in 2015, aims to offer citizens accessible quality health services and ensure universal health access through social health insurance. The program is currently managed by the Health Insurance Board and plays a pivotal role in advancing Nepal towards achieving universal health access and the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
The Constitution of Nepal guarantees the right to free basic health services and social security, with Article 51 (h) emphasizing citizens’ health insurance and access to healthcare. The Health Insurance Act 2074 was enacted to protect citizens’ rights to quality health services, minimize financial risks through prepayment, and enhance the efficiency and accountability of health service providers.
Additionally, the Health Insurance Regulations, 2075, were established to systematize the program further. These regulations have doubled the current facility package, providing an annual health insurance coverage of one hundred thousand rupees, with the government covering premiums for senior citizens. The board has also mandated that the entire organized sector participate in insurance, contributing one percent of their income.