Health Insurance Board Warns Hospitals Against Denying Services to Insured Patients

Kathmandu — The Health Insurance Board has issued a strong warning to hospitals and healthcare institutions after reports emerged that insured patients were being denied services or not provided with necessary medical facilities. The Board stated that legal action will be taken against institutions found violating existing laws.According to the Board, some service provider institutions under the health insurance program have been creating difficulties for insured patients, delaying treatment, or refusing to provide services altogether. Such practices, officials say, undermine the core objective of the national health insurance scheme and raise serious concerns about service delivery standards.The Board also highlighted specific issues, including hospitals requiring patients to take advance appointments for insurance services, discriminatory treatment between insured and cash-paying patients, and failure to provide essential medicines and healthcare services. These practices have led to growing dissatisfaction among the public.Reiterating legal provisions, the Board emphasized that all healthcare institutions must comply with the Health Insurance Act, 2017 (2074 BS) and Health Insurance Regulations, 2018 (2075 BS). It instructed service providers to ensure accessible, fair, and quality healthcare services to all insured individuals without discrimination.The Board further warned that any activities found in violation of the law will lead to strict legal action. It has also urged hospitals and healthcare institutions to streamline their services and ensure that insured patients receive treatment without unnecessary hurdles.