Cumilla:Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain announced plans for the government to establish a nationwide ambulance pool to alleviate patient transport challenges. The initiative aims to have ambulances available by the next fiscal year.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister revealed this plan while speaking to journalists after a surprise inspection at Muradnagar Upazila Health Complex in Cumilla.
Minister Sakhawat highlighted the historical development of healthcare facilities, noting that Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman initially set up 19-bed hospitals at the upazila level. These were later upgraded to 31-bed and 50-bed facilities by former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. Currently, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is working on transforming these health complexes into 151-bed hospitals.
The minister detailed plans to enhance healthcare services by increasing hospital beds and expanding medical facilities at the upazila level. The proposed 151-bed hospitals will include 10 dialysis beds, a 20-bed maternity ward, and 20 beds for children, along with physiotherapy services and breastfeeding centers.
During his visit, Minister Sakhawat expressed satisfaction with the Muradnagar Upazila Health Complex's management, noting improvements in the hospital environment. However, he acknowledged existing irregularities and shortcomings, instructing officials to address these issues promptly.