8 Nov, Kathmandu -With the government planning to set a ceiling on the amount being allocated in the name of medical treatment of individuals making special contribution to the country, the needy is likely to get up to Rs 1.5 million for the same.
Presently, the government provides medical treatment assistance to such personalities in the cases of diseases like heart and kidney diseases, cancer, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, spinal cord injury, head injury, and sickle cell anemia if treatment by self is unaffordable and they need treatment in foreign countries.
The proposal on the second amendment to the Citizens Relief, Compensation and Economic Assistance Procedure prepared by the Ministry of Health puts a ceiling on the release of medical monetary aid. The Ministry plans to present the amendment proposal in the upcoming meeting of the Council of Ministers for an approval.
Besides, the proposal recommends the government for providing medical assistance (in case necessary) up to Rs 500,000 to those people making significant contribution to the art, literature, music, politics and public administration depending on the nature of the health problems they suffer from.
Health Minister Gagan Kumar Thapa said since the lack of ceiling on the medical assistance provided by the government is capable of promoting misuse of the state coffer and the proposal is aimed at controlling such possible misappropriation.
The amendment draft also contains provision which can deprive any distinguished personality of the facility in case of seeking treatment in any foreign land without the recommendation of the Nepal Medical Board. RSS
