Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum expressed concern over the growing trend of Bangladeshi doctors going abroad for training and never returning, calling it a “waste of money” for the nation.
She made the remarks as the chief guest at the inaugural session of the Scientific Seminar organised by the Society of Neurologists of Bangladesh at the National Institute of Neurosciences Hospital on Saturday, marking World Movement Disorders Day.
The adviser said “I have a list of over 40 doctors who received training abroad but have not returned to the country, despite repeated attempts to contact them. "As a poor country, we cannot afford such a loss of investment, she said.”
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“There is no problem in training outside the country, but they must return to the country. This is my wish," she added.
The Health Advisor also highlighted the need to shift focus from a solely medically reactive healthcare system to one that emphasizes disease prevention. "It is crucial to raise awareness and adopt preventive measures to avoid future health crises," she stressed.
She also discussed the importance of quality training for healthcare professionals.
She urged for extended training periods, suggesting that the typical short courses of only a few days are inadequate.
"I would be happy if we could arrange longer training programs. If a doctor is trained for a week or two, that could make a big difference. It's not just about attending a symposium or meeting, but gaining hands-on experience in the field," she said.
Regarding Bangladesh's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the adviser expressed pride in the country's medical professionals.
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"During the COVID crisis, our doctors, nurses, and technologists proved their capabilities by providing excellent care without the need to seek help abroad. If they could handle such a major disaster, I am confident they will be able to manage other challenges in the future," she said.
The Health Adviser also emphasized the need for research on dementia and movement disorders within Bangladesh.
She urged that efforts be made to conduct research on these conditions locally, noting that such initiatives would contribute significantly to improving healthcare in the country.
The inaugural session, chaired by Professor Dr. MA Hannan, Convener of the Society of Neurologists of Bangladesh, was also attended by several distinguished guests, including Professor Dr. Md. Abu Zafar, Director General of the Directorate General of Health Services; Professor Dr. Kazi Din Mohammad, Director of the National Institute of Neurosciences Hospital; and Dr. Mohammad Nazmul Huda, Member Secretary of the Society of Neurologists of Bangladesh, among others.