Dhaka: The Health Sector Reform Commission (HSRC) has proposed a comprehensive reform of Bangladesh’s outdated health laws to enhance patient safety, ensure monetary stability, boost accountability, and improve emergency preparedness. The commission’s recommendations were presented to Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus by HSRC Chief Professor AK Azad Khan and other members at his residence, Jamuna, on May 5.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the HSRC’s report suggests the creation of several new laws, including the Bangladesh Health Commission Act, Bangladesh Health Service Act, Public Health Infrastructure Act, Bangladesh Food, Drug and Medical Device Act, Drug Pricing and Access Act, Healthcare Provider and Patient Safety Act, Hospital and Diagnostic Accreditation Act, Health Protection Act, Women’s Health Act, Cancer Control Act, Child Development Center Act, and Bangladesh Medical Research Council Act.
Additionally, the commission has recommended amendments to existing laws such as the Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council Act, Medical Education Accreditation Act, Nursing and Midwifery Council Act, Pharmacy Council Act, and Allied Health Professionals Council Act. The report emphasizes that the proposed and existing laws together could form an effective framework for the development of the country’s public health sector, with positive impacts extending to the environment, food security, and social justice.
The HSRC underscores that successful implementation of these reforms would lead to a safer, more equitable, and sustainable health sector, thereby securing the health rights of Bangladesh’s population. Despite marked progress in primary healthcare since independence, the commission notes that Bangladesh still lags in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and universal health coverage.