Nepal, Jan. 27 -- Dr Bhagawan Koirala, a pioneer in open heart surgery in Nepal, is also known for his key role in establishing the Shahid Gangalal National Heart Centre 24 years ago. Koirala, who also helped establish various other health institutions, is now working on an ambitious project aiming to run children's hospitals in all seven provinces. The Post's Thira Lal Bhusal sat down with the renowned cardiothoracic surgeon, also a former chair of Nepal Medical Council, to discuss his new project and other issues of Nepal's health sector.

The exodus of Nepali doctors, nurses and other health professionals has emerged as a serious concern. What do you make of it?

This is a matter of concern, no doubt. Mass exodus of professionals is a ...