Dhaka: The government has announced an extension of the validity period for licences issued to private hospitals, clinics, diagnostic centres, dental clinics, and medical check-up centres. Previously valid for one year, these licences will now remain effective for two years.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the decision was communicated through an office order signed by Dr Md Nurul Islam, Director of Hospitals and Clinics at the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). The extension follows a directive from the Private Health Management-1 Branch of the Health Services Division under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The new regulation is slated to take effect from the 2026-2027 fiscal year.
In addition to the extended validity, several conditions must be met for obtaining and renewing these licences. Applicants are required to deposit the two-year licence fee and the applicable VAT into the government treasury, submitting their applications via the HSM website. For new licences, applicants must secure a location clearance or environmental clearance certificate from the Department of Environment.
Institutions utilizing narcotic drugs are mandated to obtain a narcotics licence following the issuance of a new licence. The Department of Environment and the Department of Narcotics Control will oversee the monitoring of updated licences within their respective domains.
Furthermore, officials from the Directorate General of Health Services, divisional health directors, civil surgeons, and upazila health and family planning officers will conduct regular inspections of health service institutions. Any irregularities or violations discovered during these inspections could lead to the suspension or cancellation of the institution's licence.