Dhaka: The Health Sector Reform Commission has recommended the establishment of an independent Health Commission to shape national health policies and oversee health service standards. An independent and permanent ‘Bangladesh Health Commission (BHC)’ is proposed to provide strategic advice to parliament and the government on health-related policy formulation, the commission’s report states.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the report outlines that the commission would develop national strategies, set standards for services and institutions, and create clinical guidelines. The commission formally presented the report to Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus at the state guest house Jamuna.
The recommendation emphasizes the commission’s role in regularly reviewing the healthcare system’s effectiveness, service quality, and cost efficiency. It aims to provide feedback and guidance to implementing institutions and the government for continuous development.
The report highlights that the commission will be directly accountable to the head of the government, submitting an annual report to parliament. It is expected to oversee medical education, public health policy, disease prevention, patient safety, and the development of clinical and public health guidelines.
Beginning with a dedication to the martyrs of the 1971 Liberation War and the events of July-August 2024, the report aspires to build an equitable and just society through improved healthcare.
Despite progress in primary healthcare since independence, Bangladesh still struggles to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and universal health coverage, the report notes. The interim government established the Health Sector Reform Commission on November 18, 2024, headed by National Professor and Diabetic Association President Dr. A K Azad Khan.
Commission members include esteemed professionals such as Prof Mohammad Zakir Hossain, Prof Liaquat Ali, Prof Sayeba Akhter, Prof Naila Zaman Khan, MM Reza, Prof M Muzaherul Huq, Azharul Islam Khan, Prof Syed Md Akram Hussain, Prof Syed Atiqul Haq, Ahmed Ehsanur Rahman, and Umayer Afif.
The commission conducted 51 regular meetings, 32 consultations, and hospital visits over five and a half months to prepare the report. The Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics supported the commission with a survey, and consultations were held with professionals, institutions, and field experts to draft the recommendations.