Dhaka:Women and Children Affairs and Social Welfare Minister Prof. Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain announced that the government is striving to provide free primary healthcare services for all citizens. The initiative aims to facilitate access to quality and modern medical treatment at divisional and regional levels, minimizing the need for travel to the capital.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Zahid emphasized these efforts during the 32nd National Conference and 2nd Outreach Programme of the Bangladesh Society of Radiology and Imaging at the Shahid Abu Sayed International Convention Centre. He highlighted the record-high budget allocation for the health sector by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman for the current fiscal year and stressed the importance of its proper utilization to achieve significant improvements in healthcare.
The minister also assured that the government will extend necessary funding and policy support to enhance healthcare quality, urging medical professionals to collaborate in providing comprehensive treatment for complex diseases within the country. He underscored the need for proper career planning to prepare young doctors for leadership roles.
During the conference, experts noted that liver cirrhosis is the seventh leading cause of death in Bangladesh, with approximately seven million people infected with Hepatitis B and over 45 million adults suffering from fatty liver disease. They warned of high mortality rates for critical conditions and emphasized the necessity of early diagnosis and public awareness.
Furthermore, speakers recommended avoiding unnecessary CT scans and surgeries while advocating for the introduction of a radiation risk allowance for healthcare professionals, similar to practices in other countries. The conference was presided over by Brigadier General (retd) Dr. Sayed Awsaf Ali, with Bangladesh Society of Radiology and Imaging General Secretary Professor Dr. Md Nazrul Islam delivering the welcome address. The event saw participation from international delegates and experts, including those from India, Pakistan, the Netherlands, South Korea, and the United States.