NMA demands security arrangement for health workers

The Nepal Medical Association (NMA) has demanded security arrangements in healthcare facilities and health institutions for the safety and security of the healthcare service providers.

Stating that the increasing incidents of verbal abuse, assaults on doctors and vandalism of hospitals and health institutions across the country, the NMA submitted a memorandum to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs Narayankaji Shrestha here today, demanding security.

"It is a cause for concern that the security agencies, judicial and quasi-judicial agencies were unaware of the Act on Security of Health Workers and Health Institutions (First Amendment)-2078 BS. We appeal to you to create an enabling environment in line with the laws and regulations put in place so that the health workers could dedicate themselves to delivery of healthcare services being assured of safety and security."

Saying doctors and health workers of Nepal Medical College, Attarkhel, Jorpati, were misbehaved in the incident that occurred on June 13, the Association objected to it.

Drawing the attention of Home Minister Shrestha towards the incident, the visiting team of the NMA expressed its objection against such incidents that were making health workers feel insecure in line of duty.

The NMA has urged those not satisfied with the treatment process to take legal action instead of getting into vandalism and misbehaving with the healthcare service providers, said President of the NMA Dr Anil Bikram Karki.