Dhaka: BNP Standing Committee member Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain today said senior citizens of the country are facing obstacles in accessing the healthcare services in hospitals.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Zahid highlighted the challenges faced by elderly individuals suffering from serious or complex diseases as they encounter various obstacles in hospitals in the capital. He pointed out that their suffering is exacerbated by long queues, extended waiting times, and inadequate facilities at multiple hospitals in Dhaka, with the crisis being particularly acute in large hospitals.
Dr. Zahid made these remarks while serving as the chief guest at a discussion organized by the Azhar-Shafiq Foundation, held at the National Press Club. During his address, he emphasized the urgent need for separate facilities and amenities for senior citizens.
He further stated, “If our state can today provide old-age allowances, widow allowances, and stipends for heroic freedom fighters, then sincere initiatives are needed to create a separate window and separate facilities for the senior citizens … mobilizing huge financial resources for it is not required.”
Dr. Zahid stressed the importance of taking special steps in the budget for the sustainable development of society, asserting that seniors are not a burden on society and it is the state’s responsibility to ensure they can live with dignity.
The event was presided over by the President of the Azhar-Shafiq Foundation, AKM Shamsul Islam Ronju, and attended by Acting President of Gono Forum Subrata Chowdhury, General Secretary Mizanur Rahman, along with several retired government and non-government officials.