Govt working to build humane, modern healthcare system: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said the government has started working to build a humane and modern healthcare system. Both urban and rural areas will see expanded access to quality medical care, comprehensive maternal and child health services, and disease prevention programmes, he said.

He made the remarks in a message on Monday, April 6, ahead of World Health Day 2026, which will be observed in Bangladesh and other countries on Tuesday, April 7.

The prime minister said 100,000 health workers or health carers will be appointed in phases across the country, with approximately 80 per cent being women. E-health cards will be introduced for every citizen, and public-private partnership (PPP) arrangements will be launched to facilitate treatment for chronic and complex diseases.

Necessary reforms will be made to improve healthcare quality and keep medical costs affordable. Health insurance will be introduced and gradually expanded. Medical education and research will be further strengthened, and fair laws will be enacted for both service providers and recipients.

The government has a plan to gradually allocate 5 per cent of GDP to the health sector, the prime minister said.

He said people, animals and the environment are closely interrelated. Therefore, the health of animals and the environment must be protected alongside human health through the 'One Health' concept.

The use of modern technology in healthcare must be increased. Technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and machine learning can play vital roles in diagnosis and treatment, he added.

The prime minister said healthcare is not a privilege but a fundamental right. Based on the principle that 'prevention is better than cure', the government is working to ensure easy and affordable healthcare for all.

He extended greetings to all on World Health Day and wished success for the programmes organised on the occasion.