In a big step towards improving healthcare for hemophilia patients, the Ministry of Health and Population has signed an agreement with the World Federation of Hemophilia to provide free medication to those affected by the disorder.
The agreement, signed last Friday at the Department of Drug Administration, comes after the government’s recent announcement to offer free treatment for hemophilia patients. A statement from the personal secretariat of Health Minister Pradeep Paudel confirmed the development.
With this MoU, patients can now receive essential medication not just at federal and provincial hospitals but also from public healthcare centers across the country. This move is expected to ease the financial burden on families and ensure timely treatment for those in need.
Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, spokesperson for the Health Ministry, revealed that Nepal has 900 registered hemophilia patients. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that the actual number could be much higher, with around 5,000 people still undiagnosed.
Hemophilia is a genetic disorder that prevents blood from clotting properly, leading to prolonged bleeding and severe health complications if left untreated. According to the latest census, 2.2 percent of Nepal’s population has some form of disability, and approximately 0.8 percent of them are believed to be living with hemophilia.
This initiative marks a crucial step in Nepal’s healthcare system, ensuring that those suffering from hemophilia receive life-saving treatment without financial barriers. Experts hope that increased awareness and access to medication will improve early diagnosis and management of the condition across the country.
