Established on October 1, 1996, following the creation of Nasarawa State from the old Plateau State, the board initially managed 13 hospitals across the 13 Local Government Areas, with its headquarters in Lafia. Currently, it oversees 17 General Hospitals, managing their activities through respective Hospital Management Committees. The Board Headquarters, administered by a Chief Medical Director and a team of department heads, maintains a direct relationship with these committees as needed. Each hospital is led by a Medical Superintendent in charge, supported by various Hospital Management Committees.