Keeping Nepal’s doctors in Nepal

Nepal is grappling with a persistent challenge: retaining its highly trained medical professionals. Each year, the country celebrates graduating classes of doctors and nurses, only to see many of them depart for careers in countries like Australia, Japan, the UK, and the US. This exodus represents a significant loss of investment and expertise for Nepal's healthcare system.

The core issues driving this migration are clear: many healthcare professionals in Nepal are underpaid and underutilized. Despite years of demanding education and significant responsibilities, their incomes often do not reflect their expertise. Some juggle multiple jobs to make ends meet, while others opt for the perceived financial security of working abroad. This situation is not merely a workforce problem; it directly impacts the quality and capacity of healthcare services available to Nepalis.

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Many doctors and nurses in Nepal are not undertrained. They are underutilised, and many are underpaid.

While traditional solutions have focused on improving domestic infrastructure and opportunities, a new approach is emerging. Digital healthcare offers a potential pathway to retain talent by connecting medical professionals directly with patients through a national network. This model allows doctors and nurses to offer consultations and services remotely during their off-duty hours, earning additional income without necessarily leaving the country. By leveraging technology, Nepal could create a more attractive and sustainable environment for its healthcare workforce, ensuring that valuable experience and knowledge remain within the nation.

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Imagine a physician finishing work at Patan Hospital. Rather than ending the working day, she chooses to make herself available for two hours that evening through a secure national digital care network.