The Bhutanese Leading the way.
During the follow-up resolutions of the 36th Session of the National Council (NC), Member of Parliament (MP) Sonam Tenzin from Trashiyangtse, representing the National Council, presented eight recommendations proposed by the NC to the Ministry of Health (MoH) on strengthening the healthcare system.
Among these, recommendation eight drew particular attention, with the NC expressing dissatisfaction over the MoH response regarding private sector participation in health services.
The MP noted that recommendation eight had sought more detailed information on the studies, consultations, and assessments undertaken on the issue. This included clarification on the scope and nature of the studies conducted, key findings, stakeholders consulted, and the potential risks and benefits of allowing greater private sector involvement in healthcare delivery.
He said, “Out of all the responses to the recommendation, we are not satisfied with this response.” He added that despite the availability of government hospital services, patients continue to face delays in accessing timely care. While private diagnostic services already exist, he suggested that introducing private outpatient departments and dental services could help improve access and reduce pressure on public hospitals.
He further noted that the MoH had highlighted disparities in service delivery between rural and urban dzongkhags, and had also raised concerns that private sector participation could worsen existing shortages of health workers, as professionals might shift to private facilities. The ministry viewed this as a potential risk to public service delivery.
However, the MP maintained that there is an urgent need to allow private health services in the country.
In addition, Trashigang MP Sonam Tobgyel said that many Bhutanese patients travel abroad or are referred overseas when specialised services or infrastructure are not available within the country. He said, “There is a need to allow private sector participation in the health system to improve access to specialized care within the country.”
Similarly, Dagana MP Birendra Chimoria also called for private sector participation in health services, noting that overseas referrals place a financial burden on the country, while the migration of health workers for better opportunities abroad continues to weaken the domestic health workforce.
Members of the NC indicated that the response provided by the MoH was not sufficient for their expectations and so it was decided that further discussions and deliberations will be required on this recommendation.
