The initiative of community clinics is a very effective approach to achieving universal health coverage, Bangladesh ambassador to Myanmar Dr. Md. Monwar Hossain said on Friday.

“The Sheikh Hasina Initiative, recognized by the United Nations, is a greatly effective approach to achieving universal health coverage,” he said at a seminar in Yangon.

The ambassador was speaking as the keynote speaker in the seminar titled ‘Community Based Healthcare: road to achieve universal health coverage’ at the University of Public Health in Yangon.

The seminar was jointly organised by the Bangladesh Embassy in Yangon and the University of Public Health.   

Dr Hossain, in his speech, highlighted the significant progress that Bangladesh has made, under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in improving the health status of its population through a pluralistic health system and community clinic initiatives.

He said these efforts, coupled with improvements in the social determinants of health, have resulted in a notable progress in various health parameters, surpassing neighbouring countries and many other developing nations.

The community clinic approach has benefited the marginalized individuals in rural areas of Bangladesh taking care of the maternal and child health care, disease screening and tests, routine immunization, sexual and reproductive health care, mental health support, and referrals to higher-level facilities when necessary, he added.

The Ambassador mentioned that the success of community clinics in Bangladesh has gained worldwide recognition through the unanimous adoption of the resolution titled “Community-Based Primary Health Care: A Participatory and Inclusive Approach to Achieving Universal Health Coverage” on May 16, 2023 by the 193 member states of the United Nations.

Rector, Professors, public health experts, health professionals, students of the University of Public Health and embassy officials attended the seminar, said a press release.