Staff Reporter :
Universal healthcare ensures a healthy and productive population, driving economic growth. To achieve this, a people-oriented health budget is crucial. BNP Standing Committee Member Professor Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain and Business leader and Labaid Group Managing Director Sakif Shamim shared these views while talking with media.
The experts called for major reforms and increased investment in the health sector. Dr. Zahid Hossain said that for over 15 years, experts have demanded higher health allocations, but with little response. Public healthcare remains inadequate, forcing people to bear high out-of-pocket expenses. He emphasized that a healthy population is essential for national productivity, and that a future BNP government would prioritize accessible healthcare as a fundamental right.
Sakif Shamim, a vice-presidential candidate for the upcoming election of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), said the current allocation of BDT 41,908 crore for health and family welfare accounts for only 5.3% of the total budget-far below the Health Reform Commission’s recommendation of 15% of the national budget or 5% of GDP. Among 51 lower-middle-income countries, Bangladesh ranks 48th in health budget share, and its allocation remains among the lowest in South Asia.
He noted that budget underutilization is a recurring issue due to poor planning, lack of coordination, corruption, and mismanagement. He stressed the need for a comprehensive reform plan, supported by long-, medium-, and short-term strategies. Implementation and monitoring must be improved to ensure the entire budget is used effectively.
To strengthen the healthcare system, Sakif proposed: Health cards and health insurance for all. Creation of a National Health Fund. Investment in disease prevention and primary healthcare. Establishment of a health services division.
Addressing workforce shortages and improving management. Reforms in procurement, audits, and corruption prevention and improving health access for marginalized communities.
The health experts highlighted that nearly 70% of Bangladeshis pay medical expenses out-of-pocket, often pushing families into financial crisis. Health insurance could shield them from such shocks.
They also recommended malpractice insurance for healthcare providers to protect both doctors and patients.
As further suggestions they included establishing private medical universities, building model pharmacies, and expanding digital healthcare services like telemedicine and e-health platforms.
The experts also stressed the urgent need to make the API (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient) industrial park fully operational to boost the local pharmaceutical industry.
They concluded that just raising the health budget is not enough-effective planning, transparency, and commitment are needed to ensure quality healthcare for all.
