Health Minister orders suspension of two health workers over vaccine denial

During an unannounced visit to Gobindaganj Upazila Health Complex in Gaibandha, Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain learned from a patient that despite the hospital having stock, he had to buy an anti-rabies vaccine from outside for Tk 1,030. After verifying the complaint, the minister ordered the temporary suspension of two health workers.

The minister visited the hospital around 11am on Sunday (August 2) and spoke with a patient who had been bitten by a dog. The patient said he was forced to buy the vaccine from outside after being told the hospital had none. The minister expressed anger and asked the hospital's supervisor why the vaccine was not given to patients despite being in stock.

Relatives of the patient said when a woman came to the hospital in the morning after being bitten by a dog, she was told the vaccine was unavailable. They then bought the vaccine at their own cost. The minister came to know about the matter during his visit at that very moment.

Following the incident, the minister ordered the temporary suspension of Sub-Assistant Community Medical Officer Hedayetul Islam and Medical Officer Jillur Rahman. He also instructed Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer Md Masudar Rahman Akand over the phone to take action against the accused and warned him of action against himself if necessary.

The minister said it would not be tolerated if government vaccines were not given to patients but sold outside. He informed that he would carry the suspension orders on his way back in the afternoon.

The Health Minister later visited Gaibandha Modern Sadar Hospital, toured various wards and inquired about patient care, medicine supply and the hospital environment. To check the quality of food served to patients, he tasted the food himself and gave necessary instructions to officials to ensure quality service and cleanliness.