BD to recruit 5000 doctors, 100000 health workers
The government has announced an ambitious plan to strengthen Bangladesh’s healthcare system, including the recruitment of 5,000 MBBS doctors and 100,000 health workers, as part of its proposed budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year.
Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury unveiled the initiatives while presenting the national budget in Parliament on Thursday. He said the government aims to ensure universal and equitable healthcare by shifting from a treatment-focused approach to a prevention-oriented health system.
The government plans to gradually increase public investment in the health sector to 5% of GDP. Under the election manifesto commitments, a modern primary healthcare unit will be established in every union and at least one in every urban ward. An electronic health card (e-health card) will also be issued to every citizen as part of the national health system.
To improve access to specialised medical services, district hospitals and upazila health complexes will be transformed into integrated secondary healthcare units. Upazila facilities will expand bed capacity and provide maternal, newborn, child, and reproductive healthcare services, along with physiotherapy. District hospitals will focus on specialized treatments, including surgery, coronary care, and dialysis services.
The government will also establish a National Ambulance Pool and Emergency Service Network to strengthen patient transportation across the country.
A comprehensive national nutrition program is being prepared to address child malnutrition, particularly stunting among children under the age of five. The government will continue supporting healthcare infrastructure development, research, and investment, including the establishment of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) industrial parks.
Following Bangladesh’s graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, policy support and financial incentives will be provided to enhance the competitiveness of the pharmaceutical industry, promote innovation, and expand export markets. A nationwide medicine and vaccine supply network will also be developed to ensure timely delivery of essential healthcare products, even in remote regions.
Addressing concerns over recent public health challenges, the finance minister said the government has launched an extensive vaccination campaign against measles and rubella, aiming to reach nearly all children within its first 100 days.
The government also plans to introduce a new MBBS curriculum featuring modular learning, modern clinical education methods, and AI-based medical training.
To address long-standing staff shortages, 5,000 MBBS doctors will be recruited immediately.
Nursing and midwifery education will be expanded through increased opportunities at both bachelor’s and master’s levels.
Additionally, a nationwide recruitment drive for 100,000 health workers has already begun, with 80% of positions reserved for women. A four-month caregiver training program has also been launched to create employment opportunities for educated youth and meet growing domestic and international demand for healthcare workers.
The medical equipment and device manufacturing industry has been identified as a priority sector for future development.
The government has pledged to reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, improve access to quality medicines, and advance universal health coverage across Bangladesh.
For the 2026-27 fiscal year, the finance minister proposed an allocation of Tk 69,409 crore for the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, equivalent to 1.01% of GDP. In comparison, the revised allocation for FY 2025-26 stood at Tk 35,477 crore, or 0.58% of GDP.
