Dear Sir,
The lack of discipline and accountability in Bangladesh's health sector has become a serious concern. Despite repeated warnings from public health experts and health ministry advisors, there has been little visible progress. Appointing doctors and nurses alone will not solve the deep-rooted problems unless proper management and discipline are established first.
People are rapidly losing trust in the healthcare system. Due to poor treatment quality at the grassroots level, patients are rushing to district and divisional hospitals. Many even seek treatment abroad, increasing their expenses and pushing families into poverty. Studies show that around 72% of total healthcare expenses are paid directly by patients, with more than half going toward purchasing medicines.
Universal health coverage will remain a distant goal unless the quality of primary healthcare improves. The absence of an effective referral system and the failure to ensure proper use of limited government funds are worsening the crisis. Moreover, the private healthcare sector must be regulated to ensure service quality and prevent exploitation.
Without structural reforms, transparency, and accountability, the public will continue to suffer. Urgent action is needed to restore discipline and bring hope back into the health system.
Osman Gani
Vice-President, Chandina Press Club
