School of Medicine | Patan Academy of Health Sciences
Lagankhel, Lalitpur, Lalitpur
About School of Medicine | Patan Academy of Health Sciences
Patan Academy of Health Sciences (PAHS) School of Medicine: An Overview
The Patan Academy of Health Sciences (PAHS) is a public, autonomous health science university dedicated to improving the health status of the people of Nepal, particularly those living in rural and underserved areas. Located in Lagankhel, Lalitpur, the School of Medicine within PAHS was established with a visionary mandate: to produce technically competent and compassionate doctors who are committed to serving the nation's most vulnerable populations.
The history of PAHS is deeply intertwined with Patan Hospital, which serves as its primary teaching hospital. Since its inception via the Patan Academy of Health Sciences Act in 2008, the institution has pioneered a unique medical education model in Nepal. Unlike traditional medical schools, the PAHS School of Medicine emphasizes a community-based curriculum, problem-based learning (PBL), and a recruitment strategy that prioritizes students from rural backgrounds. The mission is to address the acute shortage of healthcare professionals in remote regions through innovative education, high-quality research, and sustainable health service delivery.
University Affiliations & Recognition
Autonomous Government Institution
PAHS is an autonomous academy established by an Act of the Parliament of Nepal. It functions as its own degree-granting university.
National AuthorityMedical Education Commission (MEC)
All programs are regulated and recognized by the Medical Education Commission, the supreme regulatory body for medical education in Nepal.
RecognizedNepal Medical Council (NMC)
The School of Medicine is fully accredited by the NMC for its undergraduate (MBBS) and postgraduate (MD/MS) programs.
AccreditedWorld Directory of Medical Schools (WDMS)
PAHS is listed in the WDMS, ensuring that its graduates are eligible to apply for international licensing exams like USMLE and PLAB.
Global RecognitionPrograms Offered at PAHS School of Medicine
Undergraduate Medical Education
| Program Name | Degree Level | Duration | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) | Undergraduate | 5.5 Years (including internship) | Completion of 10+2 or equivalent with Biology, Physics, and Chemistry; Qualified in MEC CEE. |
Postgraduate Medical Education (MD/MS)
| Program Name | Degree Level | Duration | Specializations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Doctor of Medicine (MD) | Postgraduate | 3 Years | Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, General Practice (MDGP), Psychiatry, Radiology, Anesthesiology |
| Master of Surgery (MS) | Postgraduate | 3 Years | General Surgery, Orthopedics, Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBGYN), Ophthalmology, ENT |
Fellowship and Specialized Training
The academy also offers various fellowship programs in specialized medical fields in collaboration with international health organizations and hospitals.
Fee Structure
| Program | Category | Total Fee (Approx.) | Admission Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| MBBS | Scholarship / Subsidized | Minimal/Bond-based | As per MEC |
| MBBS | Full Paying (Domestic) | NPR 41,00,000 - 45,00,000 | Initial Installment |
| MD/MS | Government Seat | NPR 0 (Stipend provided) | Nominal |
| MD/MS | Open Category | NPR 23,00,000 - 25,00,000 | Standard Installment |
Facilities & Campus Infrastructure
Patan Teaching Hospital
A multi-specialty 450+ bed hospital providing real-world clinical exposure and hands-on training to students from day one.
Advanced Library
Extensive collection of medical journals, textbooks, and digital resources with high-speed internet for research purposes.
Skill Labs
Equipped with state-of-the-art simulators and manikins to practice clinical procedures before interacting with patients.
Research Cell
A dedicated department facilitating clinical and community-based research projects for faculty and students.
Hostel Facilities
Separate, secure residential facilities for male and female students with basic amenities and study halls.
Digital Classrooms
Smart classrooms integrated with audio-visual tools to support the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model.
Faculty & Teaching Methodology
The PAHS School of Medicine boasts a faculty of renowned clinicians, researchers, and public health experts. The teaching methodology at PAHS is distinct from the traditional lecture-heavy approach. It utilizes:
- Problem-Based Learning (PBL): Students learn about subjects by working in groups to solve open-ended problems, fostering critical thinking.
- Community-Based Learning and Education (CBLE): A significant portion of the curriculum is spent in rural communities, where students learn about the social determinants of health.
- Integrated Curriculum: Rather than studying subjects in isolation, clinical and basic sciences are taught in an integrated manner based on organ systems.
- Early Clinical Exposure: Students begin hospital and community rotations early in their first year to build patient communication skills.
Student Life & Extracurricular Activities
Life at PAHS is rigorous but rewarding. Students are encouraged to participate in activities beyond the classroom to develop leadership and teamwork skills. The PAHS Student Society organizes various cultural programs, sports meets, and blood donation drives. Community service is a core component, with students often participating in health camps and awareness programs in the Lalitpur district and beyond. Annual sports weeks and literary competitions ensure a balanced environment for personal growth.
Career Support & Placement Assistance
Graduates of the Patan Academy of Health Sciences are highly sought after due to their practical clinical skills and community-oriented mindset. The institution provides:
- Internship Programs: Compulsory one-year rotating internship at Patan Hospital, covering all major clinical departments.
- Rural Service Bond: Many students serve in government-designated rural health centers, gaining unmatched experience and leadership opportunities.
- Career Counseling: Guidance for students pursuing postgraduate studies in Nepal or abroad.
- Alumni Network: A growing network of professionals working in premier healthcare institutions globally.
Admission Process
Admission to the PAHS School of Medicine is highly competitive and merit-based, managed through the Medical Education Commission (MEC).
- Entrance Examination: Candidates must appear for and pass the MEC Common Entrance Examination (CEE).
- Eligibility: Minimum of 50% aggregate in 10+2 (Science) or equivalent, or a minimum GPA of 2.4.
- Preference: Special consideration is given to candidates from rural areas, government schools, and marginalized communities as per the PAHS Act.
- Counseling: Candidates are selected through the MEC matching process based on their rank and preference.
- Documentation: Required documents include academic transcripts, citizenship certificate, MEC admit card, and category certificates (if applicable).
Scholarships & Financial Assistance
PAHS is committed to ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent talented students from becoming doctors. The academy offers:
- Government Scholarships: 75% of seats in the subsidized category are funded by the Government of Nepal.
- Partial Subsidized Seats: Specifically for candidates who agree to serve in rural areas for a designated period.
- Institutional Grants: Available for students from exceptionally underprivileged backgrounds.
- Merit-based Awards: Performance-based incentives for top-ranking students during their professional years.
Frequently Asked Questions
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