Govt expands support for stroke patients

A renewed push to expand social protection and healthcare support for vulnerable citizens was highlighted today as the government distributed financial assistance to stroke-paralysed patients in the capital.

The initiative saw government-backed aid handed over at the National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital on Tuesday, where Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister Prof. Dr AZM Zahid Hossain attended as the chief guest. He reiterated the government’s commitment to implementing its electoral promises, stating that efforts are underway to improve the welfare of citizens.

He said, “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the present government aims to build a humane Bangladesh for all.

We are working tirelessly to implement our electoral promises for changing the fate of this country and its people.”

The programme, held at the National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital, was jointly organised by the hospital’s Social Service Office and Patients’ Welfare Association.

During the event, Dr Zahid distributed government financial assistance of TK 50,000 each among 100 out of 400 stroke-affected paralyzed patients.

He also interacted with patients, exchanging greetings and wishing them a speedy recovery.

He said, “this year’s budget, the allocation has been doubled in comparison to last year for the welfare of the destitute, helpless, and underprivileged poor, as well as in the social protection sector, and all allowances have also been increased.”

Dr Zahid added, In line with our electoral commitments, we are standing by helpless patients suffering from strokes and other long-term diseases by providing medical treatment, rehabilitation, and financial support. Speaking as the special guest, State Minister for Health and Family Welfare Dr MA Muhit emphasised the importance of patient care in public hospitals.

He said, “As a doctor, I know that poor patients come to hospitals in large numbers for treatment. We must provide them with proper care and treatment, paying attention to reducing their financial burden.
This will ensure that patients speak well of you and the hospital. You all have a big role to play in this regard.”

The event was presided over by Prof. Dr Mohammad Nuruzzaman Khan. It was attended by hospital officials, neuroscience specialists, patients, and their family members, many of whom expressed gratitude to the government for what they described as a humanitarian initiative led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.