Kathmandu. The Health Insurance Board (HIB) has directed all hospitals (health institutions) not to purchase medicines for the insured people outside the hospital.

Information Officer at the Board Bikesh Malla said that the Board has issued a circular to all the hospitals directing the insured not to purchase medicines from the pharmacies outside. He said that the circular has been issued to all the hospitals not to ÷ to purchase medicines for the treatment of the insured in packages.

“We have received complaints that some hospitals have asked the insured people not to purchase medicines outside after the treatment”, he said, adding, “So, we have issued a circular directing the insured not to purchase medicines from outside”. ”

According to him, the hospital has been asking the insured to buy medicines and medical products from the same hospital and other pharmacies in cash. Information Officer Malla said action would be taken against such hospitals as per clause (a) of Rule 18 of Health Insurance Regulations, 2075 saying they were against the Health Insurance Act, 2075, Health Insurance Regulations, 2075 and prevailing directives and working procedures.

Under the health insurance scheme, a total of five families are covered with health care up to Rs 100,000 on the basis of contribution of Rs 3,500. Likewise, an additional Rs 700 per member will be added and Rs 20,000 per member will be added to the bill.