In a major relief for cancer patients in Nepal, 37 types of rare and expensive cancer medicines will now be available free of cost at government hospitals.
This support comes from Direct Relief, an international charity organization, which has committed to supplying Nepal with these essential cancer drugs for the next five years. The first batch of medicines has already arrived.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Health Minister Pradeep Paudel said that this initiative aims to reduce the burden on patients who previously had to travel abroad due to unavailability of medicines in Nepal.
“Cancer drugs are expensive, and poor patients suffer the most,” said Minister Paudel. “We’ve worked hard to secure this support without using government investment, and it will greatly benefit many citizens.”
Key Highlights:
- Medicines will be distributed for free at government cancer hospitals.
- Support is being channeled through One Heart Worldwide in coordination with the Ministry of Health.
- The 37 types of cancer drugs include those used for treating breast cancer, skin cancer, and other rare cancers.
- Plans are in place to expand the medicine list and reach more patients.
- Citizens are encouraged to learn more about government health facilities and insurance benefits.
Dr. Bhim Sapkota, head of coordination at the Ministry, confirmed the five-year agreement and assured that more critical drugs could be added in the future.
