Habiganj: Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain announced that a nationwide measles vaccination campaign will commence in three weeks, urging parents to ensure their children receive the necessary vaccines. He made these remarks during a surprise visit to the 250-bed Habiganj District Sadar Hospital while speaking to journalists.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the minister emphasized the importance of raising awareness among mothers about measles prevention and ensuring children receive colostrum and proper vaccination coverage. He highlighted the government's initiatives to provide healthcare for all, following directives from the prime minister.
The minister criticized the previous Awami League government, accusing them of neglecting the health sector over the past 15 years and misappropriating public funds. He alleged that there were financial irregularities in various areas of the health sector, including the recruitment process for doctors. Sakhawat pointed out the strain on hospitals, which are treating more patients than their capacity allows, and noted the government's efforts to increase the food allocation for hospital patients from Tk 175 to Tk 250 per person.
He expressed concern about the conditions at Habiganj hospital, indicating that necessary measures would be discussed in Dhaka. Plans were revealed for a 60-bed diabetes and dialysis unit to be launched in Habiganj soon, as well as initiatives to introduce dialysis facilities at every district-level hospital to alleviate pressure on Dhaka hospitals.
The minister also mentioned that a site for a permanent campus of Habiganj Medical College had been identified, and the government would acquire the land promptly. During the inspection, the minister ordered the immediate transfer of pharmacist Regan Hossain due to absence from duty.
Sakhawat toured the surgery department, outpatient department, and other units of the hospital, assessing patient care and the attendance of doctors and healthcare workers. He expressed dissatisfaction with the hospital's cleanliness and instructed officials to improve sanitation and services. Patients voiced concerns about irregularities and service quality, prompting the minister to direct officials to take corrective actions.
Habiganj District Council Administrator Ahmed Ali Mukib, Deputy Commissioner Dr. GM Sharfaraz, hospital Superintendent Aminul Haque Sarker, and officials from the district health department accompanied the minister during his visit.