Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: Minister for Health and Population, Pradeep Paudel, has decided to implement an integrated system that allows health institutions to electronically access patient examination records from a single platform.
At present, different health institutions repeat the same tests for patients. Also, the lack of integrated data has created challenges in treatment. To address this, the ministry decided to establish a unified national system that will centralize records from all health institutions. Under the new Electronic Medical Records (EMR) System, both government and private health institutions will be required to upload patient data and details into the system.
This initiative is expected to reduce patient costs, save time, eliminate redundant tests and provide consolidated data for health policy-making.
Minister Paudel said their goal is to reduce the burden on patients in the diagnosis and treatment process. “We expect the new system to help minimize patient expenses, prevent repeated tests and deliver more effective services,” he added.
According to ministry officials, the Electronic Medical Records System Operation and Management Directive, 2025, will streamline record-keeping. When patients return for follow-up treatments, their previous records will be easily accessible, making services more efficient and accessible, according to Prakash Budhathoki, the spokesperson for the Ministry.
Although electronic medical record systems have already been implemented by hospitals, they currently lack interoperability for data exchange. As a result, patients are forced to repeatedly provide the same information at different facilities. The new system is expected to eliminate this issue, said Budhathoki.
The directive requires health facilities to upload patient identification numbers, health issue diagnoses, medical recommendations, and laboratory and radiology information into the system. The system will include modules for patient registration, emergency services, pharmacy, reporting, blood banks and bed management.
According to the statement, the Ministry will develop a patient portal to ensure that only authorized health personnel can access treatment-related information. However, the government will be able to access data as required by law.
