Health Minister claims no shortage of health workforce in Nepal, but retention a challenge
He highlighted that in some federal hospitals, there are as many as nine sanctioned positions, but only one doctor is present, illustrating the disparity in workforce distribution.
KATHMANDU: Minister for Health and Population, Pradeep Paudel, has asserted that Nepal does not face a shortage of health professionals, but acknowledged difficulties in retaining them, particularly outside the Kathmandu Valley.
Speaking at an event held on Tuesday to mark the 23rd anniversary of the National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS) in Kathmandu, Minister Paudel noted that while there is an adequate number of healthcare workers within the capital, many health institutions outside the Valley continue to face a severe shortage.
He highlighted that in some federal hospitals, there are as many as nine sanctioned positions, but only one doctor is present, illustrating the disparity in workforce distribution.
Minister Paudel emphasized the need to not only produce skilled health professionals but also to create an environment where they are willing to stay and serve in remote areas of the country.
For this, he said, the production process must be made more efficient and conducive.
The minister also stated that the government has expanded cancer treatment services to all seven provinces and is similarly working to broaden transplant services across the country.
He stressed that if the government truly prioritizes health, the current investment of around 4% of the national budget will be insufficient.
