President Calls on Doctors to Help Improve Health Sector

President Mr. Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has asked doctor leaders to come forward with clear and specific plans and proposals. He wants them to help end the long standing mismanagement in the health sector. He made this call while stressing the need for healthcare access for all citizens.

The remarks came during a courtesy meeting at Bangabhaban on Thursday, September 24. A 20 member delegation from the Doctors Association of Bangladesh, known as DAB, met with the President. The delegation was led by Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Farhad Halim Donar and President Professor Dr. Harun Al Rashid.

President Mr. Alamgir said the health sector has not reached its desired level of development due to years of poor management. He noted that there was never a proper and complete plan for how many doctors, nurses, and technologists were needed. He also pointed to the lack of planning for medical equipment and infrastructure.

He mentioned that the current government has allocated the highest ever budget for the health sector. He urged officials to use this opportunity well and build a proper system for healthcare delivery.

The President called for careful planning in three key areas. These include hiring new doctors, developing infrastructure, and purchasing equipment. He also urged an end to the old culture of using influence for promotions and postings. Instead, he said qualified people should be placed in the right positions.

President Mr. Alamgir asked doctors to play a stronger role in research activities. He also spoke about the problem of unregulated clinics and diagnostic centers spreading across the country. He said these unchecked facilities are damaging the health system and called for proper oversight and control.

The President thanked doctors for their sincere help and cooperation. He specifically mentioned their care for former Prime Minister Ms. Khaleda Zia. He also thanked them for treating leaders and workers injured during the July mass uprising and the previous authoritarian rule. He expressed gratitude for the treatment he himself received.

DAB Chief Adviser Dr. Farhad Halim Donar raised concerns about recent attacks on doctors while they were on duty. He said these incidents are causing negative reactions among the medical community. He asked the government to help stop such attacks.

DAB President Dr. Harun Al Rashid thanked the current government for its sincere efforts to improve the health system. He stressed the importance of working with all stakeholders to create and carry out health policies.

Secretaries and senior officials of the President were present at the meeting.