Main planning cycles
Gain a comprehensive understanding of the country’s national health planning framework. This section provides an overview of the national health planning cycles, program and project timelines, as well as detailed insights into the strategic objectives and current status of the primary national health sector plan.
Overview
Plan horizon and strategic timelines
National Health Policy Strategy and Plan
Health Sector Plan 2018 -2023 (pp. 130-163)
The Bhutan National Health Plan (NHP) 2018–2023 focuses on ensuring a healthier nation through strategic initiatives in governance, health workforce, financing, health promotion, disease prevention, medical services, healthcare infrastructure, and traditional medicine. A key priority is strengthening the healthcare workforce by increasing specialists, improving recruitment and deployment, and enhancing training. Efforts include institutional linkages and e-health strategies. Policy evaluation and governance frameworks are also emphasized, with mandatory corruption reduction indicators incorporated into performance agreements. Health promotion and disease prevention remain a significant focus, with investments targeting maternal and child health, vaccination, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and mental health services. Infrastructure development includes constructing hospitals, upgrading existing facilities, and enhancing emergency medical response. Measures for improving access to essential medicines and medical technologies are also outlined, with substantial financial allocations for procurement, maintenance, and distribution. Traditional medicine services are prioritized, integrating modern and indigenous healthcare approaches. Investments support research, documentation, and the sustainable management of medicinal plants. Additionally, Bhutan’s health policy underscores collaboration with national and international partners to enhance healthcare governance, financing, and service delivery. Despite these advancements, challenges remain, including workforce shortages, the rising burden of NCDs, and healthcare sustainability. Efforts are being made to balance service expansion with fiscal constraints while maintaining Bhutan’s commitment to free healthcare. The plan integrates ICT-based health solutions and strategic policy frameworks to address efficiency gaps. Overall, the NHP 2018–2023 presents a structured approach to strengthening Bhutan’s health system, focusing on equity, quality, and sustainability.
Strategic Objectives
Strengthen healthcare governance, workforce development, and financial sustainability.
Enhance health promotion and disease prevention, focusing on maternal and child health, NCDs, and mental health.
Improve medical services by expanding hospital infrastructure, emergency response, and specialized care.
Ensure the availability and accessibility of essential medicines, medical technologies, and supply chain efficiency.
Integrate and expand traditional medicine services alongside modern healthcare approaches.
Leverage ICT-based health solutions and strategic policies to enhance efficiency and accessibility.