Provisions Related to Medicines in the National Health Policy | Loksewa Frequently Asked Question

Medicines are a critical part of any health system, and the National Health Policy of Nepal emphasizes their accessibility, quality, and rational use. This topic is frequently asked in Pharmacy Loksewa and License Exams, making it essential for aspirants to understand and remember.

In this post, we highlight the key provisions related to medicines as outlined in the National Health Policy. Make sure to go through each point carefully – it can help you score in competitive exams and improve your understanding of Nepal’s pharmaceutical policy framework.

Domestic production of quality drugs and technological health materials shall be promoted and their access and proper utilization shall be ensured through regulation and management of efficient production, supply, storage and distribution

Mechanisms shall be developed as per the federal structure to determine the price and quality of drugs, equipment, and technological health materials, and to regulate them. Generic prescriptions and hospital pharmacies with skilled technicians shall be implemented.
National production of essential drugs and technological health materials shall be encouraged, and self-reliance shall be increased.
Medicines and food items management divisions shall be set up at the federal Health Ministry and the Ministry of Social Development at the state level as per the food security policy and the drugs quality and price control policy. National standards for domestically produced and imported drugs and medical supplies shall be prepared to ensure their quality
Procurement, transportation, quality, storage, and distribution systems shall be made more effective and systematic by preparing specifications of drugs and medical supplies
Guidelines and standards shall be developed to receive and utilize medicines, equipment, and medical supplies as per the need from international, national, and local government, non-government, and private entities.
National medical surveillance shall be extended to all levels and made effective to manage the import and export of drugs.
Surveillance and research shall be strengthened to address antimicrobial resistance and preventive and control measures shall be applied in coordination with the livestock, agriculture food sectors
Effective regulation shall be put in place to ensure the quality of Ayurvedic medicines and herbal products.