Health Minister Mehta Promises Better Healthcare for Minorities

Access to healthcare remains a persistent concern for Nepal’s sexual and gender minority communities, who say discrimination, discomfort and policy gaps continue to stand between them and essential medical services. Seeking concrete government action, representatives from advocacy groups met Health and Food Hygiene Minister Nisha Mehta to press for reforms aimed at ensuring equal treatment across the public health system.

The delegation, representing Mayako Pahichan Nepal, Inclusive Forum and LEAD Nepal, raised concerns about barriers to healthcare, the absence of clear treatment guidelines and the need for policies that recognize the specific health requirements of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and other sexual and gender minority people.

Community Calls for Policy and Service Reforms

Among the issues discussed were access to hormone therapy, gender-affirming surgeries and the availability of healthcare services that are welcoming and responsive to diverse gender identities.

Representatives argued that Nepal’s existing healthcare system has yet to adequately address the differing needs of all citizens. They said improvements are needed not only in technical medical services but also in the attitudes and practices of healthcare providers so that patients can seek treatment without fear of discrimination.

The meeting was attended by several community representatives, including Mayako Pahichan Nepal founder Sunil Babu Pant.

Government Signals Willingness to Act

Minister Mehta said the right to healthcare cannot be limited by a person’s gender identity or sexual orientation and stressed that providing respectful, quality and discrimination-free health services is the responsibility of the state.

She said the ministry is positive about addressing the distinct health needs of sexual and gender minority communities through both policy and technical measures. The minister also committed to coordinating with relevant government agencies, health experts and stakeholder organizations to move necessary reforms forward.

Community representatives, however, said commitments must now be reflected in practice. They urged the government to ensure safer environments in health institutions, strengthen the capacity of healthcare workers and introduce clear treatment guidelines so that equal access to healthcare becomes a reality rather than a policy promise.