Ratapani Primary Health Center in Khatyad Rural Municipality–11 has been without a doctor for a long time, depriving local residents of basic health services. Although the Constitution of Nepal guarantees health as a fundamental right, people in remote areas still lack easy access to such services.
Dhanraj Karki of Khatyad–11 complained that he had to return empty-handed after visiting the health center to obtain a medical recommendation for his disabled grandson due to the absence of a doctor. Because of this shortage, patients are forced to walk for hours to reach the district headquarters, Gamgadhi, or other locations, even for minor treatment.
Equipment such as X-ray machines at the health center has remained unused. According to local resident Mayadevi Woda, patients arriving with bone and joint or other health issues are unable to receive proper examinations and are sent back without treatment.
Previously, Dr. Bikash Dhital had been working at the health center on deputation. After his term ended, the center became doctorless. According to local Chandrabahadur Karki, along with the absence of a doctor, telemedicine and X-ray services have also been affected.
Currently, around 20 to 30 patients visit the health center daily. With rising temperatures, cases of common cold, cough, and fever are also increasing. Although medicines are available, patients are compelled to seek treatment at private medical shops at high costs due to the lack of a doctor, said Gokarna Karki.
According to Senior AHEB Narayan Karki of Ratapani Health Center, it has been about a month since the doctor’s post has remained vacant. He stated that the concerned authorities have already been informed. While basic treatment services are being provided, it has become difficult to treat patients with more serious conditions.
Patients from Khatyad, as well as neighboring districts such as Bajura and Humla, also visit Ratapani Health Center. However, due to the lack of a doctor, most patients are forced to return without receiving treatment.
Local residents have demanded that the state immediately deploy health workers, including doctors, with proper staffing positions to ensure accessible and effective healthcare services in remote areas.