Health Insurance in Nepal, Asia
Information expatriation
Capital City: Kathmandu
Total area: 147,181 km2
Population: 28,196,000
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time Zones by Country
Calling Code: +977 xxx
Practical Information:
Health Product: Travel Insurance and Health insurance
Health Insurance information and Sanitary Risk: World Health Map
BLOG: Expat Health insurance Information
Here is a brief description of the healthcare system in the country:
· Nepal has a mixed public-private system aimed at providing universal health coverage to its population.
· The public system consists of health posts, primary health centers, district hospitals and specialized referral hospitals.
· It focuses on primary care and community-level prevention, but facilities/quality can vary significantly between urban and rural areas.
· Private providers like hospitals, clinics and pharmacies supplement public options, especially in cities.
· Around 40% of spending is public and 60% is private out-of-pocket payments or private insurance.
· Key health challenges include maternal and child health issues in rural areas with limited access to care.
· Communicable diseases are a major issue, but non-communicable conditions are rising as well.
· Geographic and socioeconomic disparities lead to uneven care standards across the country.
· Medical tourism is popular for procedures not widely available within Nepal.
· In summary, Nepal aims for universal care but funding gaps and infrastructure disparities between urban and rural regions pose ongoing challenges.
Here are some key health considerations for expatriates living in the country:
· Purchase international medical insurance as public services have significant gaps, especially in rural areas.
· Major cities like Kathmandu have best facilities - know your closest options if living outside urban centers.
· Risks exist for infectious diseases depending on location - strictly follow basic hygiene practices.
· Bring adequate prescription supplies as availability varies greatly outside major hospitals.
· Consider medical evacuation plan/insurance due to potential need to be transported abroad for advanced care.
· Register with your embassy in case of emergency requiring repatriation from Nepal.
· Rural infrastructure like roads/transport may hamper access to hospitals during weather events or other issues.
· Altitude sickness is a risk especially when traveling/trekking in mountains - take proper precautions.
· Have contingency plans for natural disasters common in the Himalayas during monsoon season.
· With planning and insurance, expats can access reasonable healthcare options in Nepal by utilizing private facilities to supplement public system limitations.