Dhaka: Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Sakhawat Husain has revealed that funds allocated to the health sector were misappropriated over the past 17 years under a previous fascist regime. “Instead of acquiring necessary vaccines through international organizations, several irregularities were committed for personal gain,” Husain stated while addressing journalists after a visit to Shaheed Syed Nazrul Islam Medical College Hospital.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Husain highlighted that the absence of regular MR (Measles-Rubella) vaccination campaigns post-2020 exacerbated the measles situation in the country. To counter the crisis, the BNP government, with international aid, swiftly procured vaccines, leading to a nationwide vaccination drive that has already immunized over two crore children. Vaccination efforts are ongoing at the upazila level to cover children who missed their doses.
Addressing dengue preparedness, Husain mentioned that the government had stocked over 100,000 dengue saline bags as a precautionary measure. He also pointed out the irregularities during previous government tenures, citing that many radiotherapy machines purchased at inflated prices were left unused and have now become nonfunctional in hospitals.
Husain emphasized the shortage of doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers relative to the population, adding that despite financial and manpower constraints, the government is committed to providing healthcare services. He noted the lack of structural planning in hospitals, particularly in Khulna and Faridpur. “We assumed responsibility under extremely limited circumstances. It is not possible to solve all problems overnight,” he remarked.
To address the manpower shortage, Husain announced a plan to recruit 100,000 healthcare workers starting in July, with 80 percent of the recruits being women. This initiative aims to enhance healthcare services for pregnant women at the village level through the recruitment of midwives and caregivers.
Husain also shared that the upcoming budget would see the second-largest allocation directed towards the health sector. From July 1, efforts will commence to provide dialysis machines and essential facilities to hospitals in phases. He issued strict instructions regarding the cleanliness and environment of Shaheed Syed Nazrul Islam Medical College Hospital to prevent dengue breeding and fire hazards.
Expressing deep sorrow over the deaths of six newborns at Ad-din Hospital, Husain suggested that negligence by hospital authorities might have caused the incident. An investigation committee has been formed to take necessary action. Furthermore, the government is taking a stringent stance against irregularities in private clinics, with plans to shut down those operating without licenses or employing fake doctors.
Husain criticized the outsourcing system, stating that it has been a breeding ground for corruption in tenders and recruitment. The government is exploring alternative methods to address these issues. Local MP and government officials accompanied the minister during his visit, which also included stops at Pakundia Upazila Health Complex and Hossainpur Upazila Health Complex.