Govt working to ensure quality healthcare for every citizen: Zubaida

Bangla Press Desk:   Zubaida Rahman, wife of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, has said the government is working to ensure quality healthcare services for every citizen of the country as healthcare is a fundamental right.

"Reforms will be introduced in the health system so that no one becomes destitute while bearing medical expenses and healthcare services can reach people's doorsteps," she said.Zubaida, who is also the vice-president of the Ziaur Rahman Foundation, was addressing a programme organised by the Doctors Association of Bangladesh (DAB) at the field adjacent to the LD Hall of the Jatiya Sangsad in Dhaka on Saturday.

The programme included the distribution of Eid gifts among underprivileged children, a discussion, and an iftar mahfil.

Speaking as the chief guest, Zubaida said primary healthcare will be developed as the main foundation of the country's health system.

She said there are plans to ensure 24-hour ambulance services at upazila health complexes and to develop them as specialised healthcare centres for mothers and children.

Zubaida also stressed ensuring the rights, safety and professional development of healthcare workers and modernising the medical education system. Safe management of medical waste will also be ensured, she added.

Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain and State Minister MA Muhit attended the programme as special guests.

DAB Chief Adviser Farhad Halim Donar and Chief Whip of the Jatiya Sangsad Nurul Islam were also present at the programme.

Chaired by DAB President Harun Al Rashid, Secretary General Mohammad Zahirul Islam Shakil conducted the event.

Eid gifts were distributed not only among underprivileged children but also among injured "July warriors" of the July mass uprising and family members of those who were victims of enforced disappearance and killings over the past 17 years.

Speaking on the occasion, Health and Family Welfare Minister Sakhawat Hossain said doctors, nurses and health workers working in government healthcare institutions at district and upazila levels must ensure timely performance of their duties.

He said necessary steps will be taken to make upazila health complexes free from intermediaries and ensure regular attendance of those working there.

He added that in many cases doctors and other concerned officials do not report to their workplaces on time or remain absent, and the government will take a strict stance to change the situation.

An iftar mahfil was held at the end of the programme in honour of the participants..Source: daily Sun

BP/SP