Nepali Congress MP Gautam calls for free hemophilia treatment law implementation

KATHMANDU: In a speech during the Zero Hour of the Parliament session on Monday, Nepali Congress MP Pratima Gautam urged the government to implement legal provisions for the free treatment of hemophilia patients.

Gautam highlighted that the Disability Rights Act, 2074, and its 2077 regulations include hemophilia as one of the conditions covered under the ten disability categories. The Act mandates the provision of essential medication, including anti-hemophilic factors, through local governments.

However, Gautam emphasized that the intended benefits have not been realized on the ground, with many patients still unable to access the necessary treatments.

She noted, “While the state has failed to provide adequate medication, patients continue to suffer unimaginable pain. On the other hand, the incidence of disability and mortality is also rising among patients.” Gautam pointed out that despite clear legal provisions, the lack of proper implementation is leading to unfortunate deaths. She called on the government to ensure the provision of anti-hemophilic factors, which are essential for lifelong treatment, to save the lives of citizens.

Hemophilia is a genetic disorder that impairs the blood’s ability to clot, causing continuous bleeding when an injury occurs. Without timely medical intervention, it can be fatal.

According to Gautam, two patients have died in the past two months due to this condition. Currently, there are 4,937 hemophilia patients in Nepal.

Gautam’s statement underscores the urgency of addressing the gaps in healthcare delivery and ensuring that patients with hemophilia receive the life-saving treatment they are entitled to.