Established on 18 January 1993 and upgraded as an autonomous Health Sciences University on 28 October 1998, BPKIHS is mandated to develop socially responsible and competent health workforce, provide equitable healthcare, and pursue innovative health research. Located in eastern Nepal, the institute extends services through the teaching district concept to PHCs, district hospitals, and zonal hospitals.

Conceived as an exemplar of Nepal-India cooperation, BPKIHS was founded following the Indo-Nepal agreement signed on Mahashivaratri (10 March 1994). The university envisions attracting learners and educators worldwide to its innovative educational programmes. Parliament recognises it as a centre of national importance for tropical and infectious disease excellence.

BPKIHS comprises four colleges—Medical, Dental, Nursing, and Public Health—with a 700-bed Central Teaching Hospital. Postgraduate programmes (MD, MS, MSc) launched in 1999, with degrees accredited by respective Nepal councils and many recognised by the Medical Council of India.

The School of Public Health (est. 2005) offers a two-year MPH programme. MSc Nursing began in 2008. MBBS, BDS, and nursing programmes are recognised by national councils and international directories. BDS graduates qualify for Dental Council of India screening tests.

Allied health sciences programmes are endorsed by the Nepal Health Professional Council. Short-term academic programmes, refresher courses, and continuing medical education are integral to institutional culture.

Community-based training through teaching district hospitals ensures students “learn by doing” under faculty supervision while local communities receive specialist services. The institute emphasises social accountability, including provisions for underprivileged groups.