Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Monday expressed optimism about bringing significant changes to Bangladesh’s health sector with the combined efforts of all involved in delivering healthcare services to better serve the people.
"No need to look back. This is a big opportunity for those who are involved in providing health services. A little more attention and dedication from each one of you can bring a massive change," he said, explaining how at least 25 percent improvement is possible within the existing structure with sincere efforts.
Prof Yunus sees "window of opportunity" for changes in health sector
Prof Yunus was addressing a conference of district civil surgeons at Shapla Hall in Chief Adviser's Office as the chief guest. The conference was held for the first time in Bangladesh.
The Chief Adviser emphasised the need for physicians to take personal responsibility in advancing the healthcare system, urging them to act with creativity, mindfulness, and professionalism.
Recognising the current state of the healthcare system, he said, "Too often we blame each other. But blaming will not bring about change. We must ask ourselves - if other countries can improve their healthcare systems, what are the shortcomings or negligence preventing us from doing the same? Let us reflect and commit to fixing this.”
Prof Yunus said with the existing medical infrastructure and equipment in Bangladesh, the healthcare system could see a 25% improvement if there is genuine commitment and determination.
The Chief Adviser, who inaugurated the conference, said people may either get inspired or frustrated by seeing their (people in the health sector) efforts towards health services.
He, however, assured of addressing the requirements in the health sector but laid emphasis on ensuring better efforts from each person involved in the sector which is absolutely possible if due attention is given.
"We must ask ourselves, why can't we do that? I think if we have that mindset, changes are possible," Prof Yunus said.
Calling the present moment a "window of opportunity," Prof Yunus noted that global eyes are on Bangladesh, and encouraged all health professionals to seize the moment to better serve the nation.
He also referred to the Health Sector Reform Commission’s recently submitted report, which includes a set of recommendations aimed at systemic improvements.
Health and Family Welfare Adviser Nurjahan Begum also spoke at the event, sharing her observations from surprise visits to various hospitals.
She, in some cases, observed a lack of discipline and accountability. "Without addressing these issues, we cannot expect meaningful success."
The Health Adviser stressed the importance of collaboration between government and non-government organisations to improve healthcare delivery.
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Echoing Prof Yunus’ ethos, she added, "Nothing is impossible. Turning the impossible into possible is your responsibility."
Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum extended heartfelt congratulations to doctors for their dedication and bravery during the Covid-19 pandemic and the July Movement.
She stressed that civil surgeons are key to strengthening the nation’s healthcare, saying, “Despite notable progress, our health sector still lags due to a shortage of personnel, medicines, and medical equipment. But I believe civil surgeons will lead the way forward through their intellect and sense of duty.”
The Health Adviser announced plans to recruit 7,000 doctors in phases, along with additional nurses, to strengthen the workforce.
She urged district civil surgeons to identify key challenges at the local level for further discussion and resolution.
Chief Adviser's Special Assistant Prof Dr Sayedur Rahman said that the improvement of the health sector is possible only if the problems of promotion, posting, budgets and medicine shortage are resolved.
He also mentioned that a unique health card will be made to restructure the health sector.
Dhaka Civil Surgeon and Director General (Health) also spoke.