Nepal Insurance Authority and Sichuan Health Security Administration Hold High-Level Health Insurance Talks

Kathmandu – A high-level discussion on health insurance policies and systems was held on Monday between the Nepal Insurance Authority (NIA) and the Sichuan Health Security Administration in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China. The bilateral meeting focused on health insurance sustainability, service accessibility, and policy development.

The Nepali delegation was led by Sharad Ojha, Chairman of the Nepal Insurance Authority, and included Executive Director Sushil Dev Subedi and Nepal’s Consulate General in Chengdu, Suresh Raut. From the Chinese side, the delegation was headed by Zhang Hefeng, Deputy Director General of the Sichuan Health Security Administration, along with senior division heads from planning, medical services, and procurement.

The meeting explored in-depth the structure and functioning of Sichuan’s health insurance system, which is categorized into three tiers: basic health care, critical illness treatment with additional premiums, and comprehensive medical assistance. Deputy Director Zhang highlighted that government-provided services are expanded based on the institution’s financial capacity and government support. Citizens also access insurance for non-critical ailments under the government scheme, while regularly used medicines and basic services are covered through public health programs.

To combat fraudulent claims, the Sichuan administration has implemented strict internal controls and imposes significant penalties on health institutions involved in malpractice. Zhang also noted the role of the private sector in offering additional insurance benefits.

Chairman Ojha raised questions about the distinctions between public and private health insurance systems in China and emphasized the importance of sustainability in government-run schemes. He stated that Nepal would incorporate insights from Sichuan’s model while shaping its own health insurance policies.

Both sides acknowledged the importance of technology in improving transparency, efficiency, and trust in health insurance. The meeting also emphasized enhancing public-private collaboration and adopting digital tools to increase the effectiveness of insurance services.