Kathmandu, Jan. 12 -- Yam Prasad Neupane, a resident of ward 3 of Kalika Rural Municipality in Rasuwa, was taken to Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital in Kathmandu on Monday for treatment of prostate problems. He presented a referral letter from Trishuli Hospital in Nuwakot district and his health insurance card at the ticket counter.

However, counter staff asked Neupane to pay in full for the services, stating that the hospital has decided to discontinue government health insurance service starting upcoming Thursday.

"I am seriously ill, and doctors at Trishuli Hospital told me to go to Kathmandu," complained Neupane, who is 61 years old. "I cannot afford to pay for treatment out of pocket. Doctors said the hospital will stop provi...