Jigmi Wangdi

The Ministry of Health (MoH) plans to revamp Bhutan’s healthcare system with a series of initiatives aimed at improving service delivery, enhancing efficiency, and addressing critical shortages.

Health Minister Tandin Wangchuk presented a progress report on these ongoing reforms to the National Assembly on November 18.

The presentation highlighted advancements in the areas of healthcare structure, medical supply chains, funding for outreach clinics, and expansion of diagnostic and emergency services.

Lyonpo Tandin Wangchuk outlined the ministry’s commitment to reverting the organisational structure by integrating the National Medical Services back into the ministry. “This restructuring aims to realign governance, coordination, and regulation of healthcare services to enhance delivery and oversight.”

The reorganisation will include reinstating the Department of Traditional Medicine Services and creating the Dzongkhag Health Officer position, improving both administrative and clinical functions.

The proposal is being finalised for review by the Royal Civil Service Commission and submission to the Cabinet.

Ensuring the adequacy of medical supplies is a priority, Lyonpo said, adding that the ministry has recruited key personnel, including procurement officers and pharmacy professionals, to address supply chain challenges.

“We have streamlined the Quality Inspection process, ensuring specialised products are delivered directly to JDWNRH for quicker inspection and distribution,” Lyonpo said.

Additionally, buffer stocks at Phuentsholing are now maintained to mitigate shortages, with plans for new medical warehouses in Samdrupjongkhar and Paro proposed under the 13th Plan.

Regarding outreach clinic (ORC) and emergency services funding, Lyonpo said, “ORCs have resumed to pre-pandemic levels, with visits incorporated into Annual Work Plans. The funding is allocated within permissible budgets and does not require separate allocations.”

Emergency services, including air and land ambulances, continue to receive robust support from the government, Lyonpo said.

Another focus area is the acquisition of advanced diagnostic equipment.

Lyonpo highlighted the strain on JDWNRH’s resources, specifically the lack of CT and MRI machines.

To address this, the MoH has approached international donors, including the World Health Organization and the Embassy of Japan, for funding.

The ministry is also considering the feasibility of importing refurbished equipment while navigating the complexities of customs regulations.

The overcrowding of JDWNRH’s emergency department remains a major concern. Lyonpo outlined several measures to ease the burden, including the refurbishment of old wards to add 36 beds and the deployment of 18 additional nurses in high-demand areas.

“We are very grateful to Her Majesty the Royal Grandmother for her generous support towards a hospice facility at Simtokha, which will ease the burden on the medical wards,” Lyonpo shared.

Lyonpo also highlighted efforts to reduce self-referrals through improved clinical management and specialised health camps.