Dhaka: Prime Minister’s spouse Dr. Zubaida Rahman emphasized that health care is a fundamental right and not a privilege during an exchange meeting at Kurmitola General Hospital in Dhaka. She highlighted the long-standing neglect of Bangladesh’s health sector and the government’s commitment to ensuring that no citizen is deprived of necessary medical services.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Dr. Zubaida, a physician by profession, spoke as the chief guest under the slogan ‘Implementing Dhaka-17 electoral commitment to ensure equitable health care.’ She addressed the pressing challenges faced by the health sector, including the heavy pressure on public hospitals and the demotivation of health workers. Dr. Zubaida stressed that approximately 72 percent of health expenditures are out-of-pocket, making illness a significant cause of poverty in the nation.
She outlined the government’s vision for a healthier, more productive, self-reliant, and sovereign Bangladesh, with a focus on providing comprehensive health services to underserved areas such as Korail, Bhashantek, and Sattola slums. The initiatives aim to ensure proper medical care for everyone, from newborns to the elderly, and timely treatment for pregnant women facing complications.
Dr. Zubaida acknowledged the crucial role played by low-income communities in supporting the city’s economy, particularly in the garment industry. Despite this, 42.6 percent of residents depend on local pharmacies for addressing everyday health issues to avoid work disruptions. She called for dedicated volunteers to raise awareness about available health services and expressed hope for collaboration between volunteers and hospital staff to save lives.
During the event, Dr. Zubaida inaugurated the pathology pavilion, gastro-liver center, and a 50-bed ICU unit at Kurmitola General Hospital. She interacted with ICU patients and discussed service quality with hospital officials, urging doctors to provide the highest level of care. The event was chaired by Brig Gen Md Saidur Rahman, the hospital’s director, and attended by notable figures including Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain, Information Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon, and others.
Health Minister Sardar Sakhawat Husain remarked that Dr. Zubaida’s presence exemplified accountability and inspired hope. He noted that ‘health for all’ is a government challenge and part of a new political direction based on accountability. Information Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon anticipated significant improvements in health services quality under the current government, drawing parallels to past agricultural reforms that led to self-sufficiency in food production.
Hospital Director Brig Gen Saidur Rahman highlighted the new ICU unit’s modern facilities and trained staff, ensuring better treatment for critically ill patients.