Citizens can now access health insurance services from their current residence

KATHMANDU: Now, citizens covered by health insurance can receive services from their place of residence without having to return to the insured place.

The Cabinet meeting passed this provision by amending the Health Insurance Regulations on the proposal of Health and Population Minister Pradeep Poudel.

Previously, citizens who moved away from the location where they were originally insured were required to return there to receive health services. The new provision allows individuals to establish a “first service point” at their current residence, simplifying access to care and reducing bureaucratic hurdles in the referral process.

Minister Paudel stated that the amendment was proposed in response to growing public demand to make the health insurance system more practical, accessible, and user-friendly.

His secretariat confirmed that the proposal was unanimously approved by the Council of Ministers.

Another significant reform included in the amendment is the removal of the mandatory three-month waiting period to access services after enrolling in the program.

Insured individuals will now be eligible to receive services within one month of registration, improving timely access to healthcare.

Although the health insurance program has expanded nationwide, not all areas previously had access to a “first service point.” With the new regulations, such service points will now be established across all levels of government—local, provincial, and federal—ensuring that citizens can utilize insurance benefits through the nearest health facility.

Minister Paudel emphasized, “Amending the regulations was essential to make health insurance universally accessible and easier to implement. This change will help citizens receive timely care, eliminate the burden of returning to the insured location, and enhance primary care services.”