Bhutan's first modern hospital was established in Thimphu in the 1960s as part of the Third King's modernization drive. Prior to this, all healthcare was provided through traditional medicine (Sowa Rigpa) practitioners.
Overview
The establishment of Bhutan's first modern hospital marked a pivotal moment in the country's modernization. Prior to the 1960s, all healthcare in Bhutan was provided through traditional medicine (Sowa Rigpa) practitioners — there were no modern doctors, hospitals, or clinics.
Background
When the Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, launched Bhutan's First Five-Year Plan in 1961, healthcare was among the top priorities alongside roads and schools. India provided significant support in establishing the initial health infrastructure.
Growth
From that single hospital, Bhutan's healthcare system has grown to include the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital in Thimphu, district hospitals in all 20 dzongkhags, and a network of Basic Health Units reaching remote communities. Today, Bhutan provides free healthcare to all citizens — a remarkable achievement for a country that had no modern medical facilities within living memory.
References
- "Overview." Ministry of Health, Royal Government of Bhutan.
- "Bhutanese Health and the Health Care System: Past, Present, and Future." The Druk Journal.
- "History of emergency medicine in Bhutan." International Journal of Emergency Medicine / PMC, 2024.
- "Progress and delivery of health care in Bhutan." Tropical Medicine & International Health / Wiley, 2011.
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