Kathmandu: Minister for Health and Population, Pradip Paudel, has announced that essential medicines for cancer treatment will be provided free of cost in Nepal.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the first shipment of 37 types of medicines provided by Direct Relief, an international humanitarian organization, has already arrived in the country. This shipment was part of Direct Relief’s commitment to supply Nepal with necessary cancer treatment drugs, eliminating the need for patients to seek treatment abroad due to drug shortages.
Minister Paudel previously decided that these medicines would be distributed free of charge at government hospitals. During an event to hand over the drugs, which were dispatched by Direct Relief to the Government of Nepal via One Heart Worldwide, the Minister stated that this aid will significantly support cancer patients, making treatment more accessible within the country.
The shipment includes drugs for treating breast cancer, skin cancer, and several other types of cancer. This assistance is planned to continue for the next five years, tailored to Nepal’s needs.
Minister Paudel emphasized that cancer treatment often incurs high costs due to expensive medications, creating barriers for underprivileged citizens. He assured that arrangements have been made to promptly distribute the medicines to government cancer hospitals.
He also urged the media to help raise public awareness, noting that many citizens are unaware of available government health services and insurance options.
Dr. Bhim Sapkota, Head of the Ministry’s Coordination Division, confirmed that under the agreement, Nepal will continue to receive these medicines for the next five years.
Surya Bhatta, Nepal Representative of One Heart Worldwide, credited Minister Paudel’s efforts for securing the medicines, describing it as a significant achievement for Nepal.
According to Ministry Spokesperson Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, the medicines will be distributed through BP Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital in Bharatpur, Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital, Sushil Koirala Prakhar Cancer Hospital in Banke, and Bir Hospital in Kathmandu.