Kathmandu: Minister for Health and Population Pradeep Poudel has emphasized the significance of improving Bir Hospital as a means to enhance the overall health service sector. Highlighting the plans during the 136th anniversary celebration of Bir Hospital, Minister Poudel asserted that efforts would be made to equip the oldest hospital in the country with the necessary infrastructure and equipment.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the Health Minister also underscored the need for additional investment to advance Nepal’s health sector, which remains in need of significant improvements. He announced ongoing efforts to synchronize the health insurance funds across all hospitals by the month of Bhadra, which he believes will contribute to the sector’s development.
During the event, the hospital’s director, Prof Dr. Dilip Sharma, presented the annual report for the fiscal year 2081/82. The report revealed that Bir Hospital provided outpatient services to 647,215 individuals, treated 35,141 emergency cases, offered 21,224 outpatient services, and conducted 26,446 surgical procedures during the period. Dr. Sharma pointed out several challenges faced by the hospital, including a shortage of annual budget for essential items, delays in reimbursement from the Health Insurance Board, high staff turnover, and insufficient approved posts for technical personnel.
Established on 12th Shrawan 1946 BS with just 15 beds, Bir Hospital has grown significantly to an approved capacity of 960 beds, reflecting its longstanding contribution to Nepal’s healthcare system.