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Kathmandu, Nepal – National Academy of Medical Sciences Bir Hospital, Nepal’s oldest medical institution, has reached a significant milestone by launching its first-ever official formulary, the Bir Hospital Formulary (First Edition, 2082 [2025]). This landmark publication, which promotes evidence-based medical practices and aims to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR), was unveiled by the Honourable Minister for Health and Population, Mr. Pradeep Poudel, during the hospital’s 136^th anniversary.

The formulary was developed under the leadership of the Quality Standard and Regulation Division of the Ministry of Health and Population, with support from the UK Aid Fleming Fund Regional Grant CAPTURA II/TACE. The International Vaccine Institute led the grant, with local implementation by Anweshan.

A Practical Guide for Medical Professionals

Designed as a practical clinical resource, the Bir Hospital Formulary assists healthcare professionals—including doctors, pharmacists, nurses, and other medical staff—in delivering effective, standardized treatment.

Its primary goals are:

• Encouraging rational use of medications by clearly outlining correct selection, dosages, and treatment durations.
• Standardizing treatment protocols across hospital departments, ensuring consistency and high-quality care.
• Improving coordination among hospital units for optimal patient outcomes and better resource management.

By combining up-to-date clinical guidelines with essential medicines, this formulary empowers healthcare providers to make informed decisions, minimize medication errors, and enhance therapeutic effectiveness.

Setting an Example for Healthcare Institutions

Since its founding in 1889, Bir Hospital has consistently led advancements in healthcare in Nepal. As the nation’s largest tertiary care and referral hospital, its creation of this comprehensive formulary serves as a model for other healthcare facilities. Bir Hospital will share its resources and extensive experience, assisting other public institutions nationwide in developing their own formularies, aligning with the Ministry’s commitment to sustainability.

The formulary is designed as a dynamic, evolving resource that will be regularly updated to reflect the latest medical research, new treatment methods, and emerging healthcare issues specific to Nepal. This approach is a crucial part of national efforts to modernize healthcare infrastructure and improve treatment quality.

Moreover, the formulary emphasizes patient education and awareness. By promoting transparency about prescribed treatments, it fosters a stronger partnership between healthcare providers and patients, resulting in safer, more effective care.