Kathmandu: A separate ward for the treatment of sickle cell disease, a major health issue among the Tharu community, has been established at the Rapti Academy of Health Sciences in Ghorahi, Dang.

Vice-Chancellor Bikas Lamichhane announced that the ward, which includes 10 beds for inpatient care and 5 beds for daytime treatment, began operations on Sunday. This development follows the ministerial-level decision made on Kartik 20 by Health and Population Minister Pradeep Paudel to set up a dedicated ward at Bheri Hospital, Nepalgunj. Now, with the establishment of another ward in Ghorahi, the initiative to combat sickle cell disease in the Tharu-majority region has expanded.

Minister Paudel previously expressed commitment to taking all necessary measures to address the Tharu community’s primary health concern. Within just a month of this commitment, another major government hospital has set up a specialized ward for treatment.

With this step, specialized treatment for sickle cell disease, which is a hereditary condition affecting around 12% of the Tharu community, is now accessible in two key regions where the Tharu population is concentrated. Vice-Chancellor Devkota of the Rapti Academy of Health Sciences noted that, unlike before when only outpatient treatment was available, the facility now offers comprehensive inpatient care, making treatment more accessible and convenient.

Plans for Free Medication Underway

Minister Paudel has also publicly stated plans to provide free medication for sickle cell treatment. He mentioned that efforts are being made to implement this initiative, recognizing the significant impact the disease has on underprivileged sections of the Tharu community. Currently, treatment is symptomatic, but the government is pushing forward with a plan to distribute necessary medicines at no cost. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has also voiced support for this initiative, emphasizing that the medication will be made available free of charge.