Madhyabindu Provincial Hospital in East Nawalparasi is facing challenges in service delivery due to a shortage of manpower in relation to the increasing patient load. Established in 2008, the hospital serves 300-400 patients daily.

Since the implementation of the health insurance policy, the hospital has seen a significant rise in patient numbers. However, the government's failure to upgrade the hospital’s facilities in line with the growing demand has led to difficulties in providing adequate services.

In addition to the lack of physical infrastructure, only 25 staff members are currently working out of 31 available posts. To address the rising number of patients, the hospital development committee has employed 135 health officials, officers, and doctors on a temporary basis.

According to the president of the committee, Balkrishna Ghimire, securing land tenure, providing 100 hospital beds, and increasing human resources could help prevent locals from having to travel outside the district for treatment.

Despite the limited manpower and inadequate infrastructure, the hospital continues to offer vital services, including dialysis for 20 patients daily, OPD services for 300-400 patients, ART (Antiretroviral Therapy), and free prosthetic limbs. Dr. Ramesh Prasad Acharya, the hospital’s Medical Superintendent, stated, “Although the new building is under construction, we are currently using the old building for health services. Amid the growing demand for healthcare services, we are facing challenges due to insufficient staff, infrastructure, and equipment.”

Committee members have formally requested the provincial and central governments to approve 50 additional beds, citing the lack of adequate facilities and health professionals, compounded by the hospital’s 60-kilometre distance from the East-West highway. However, they have expressed frustration with the government’s disregard for their requests.

Once the 50-bed approval is granted, the hospital plans to make space for the new beds. The new building is set to be inaugurated on March 12. With the completion of the ground and first floors, the hospital intends to begin operating services in the new building soon.