Overhauling of healthcare system necessary

The healthcare system in the country has become more of a luxury than a necessity. Most common people cannot afford treatment due to the hefty charges of physicians, prices of medicines, treatment costs at clinics, hospitals and other facilities and so on.

There exists an illegal nexus between doctors and diagnostic centres, as has been reported many times by different media outlets. After examining a patient, the doctor gives a list of diagnostic tests and refers the patient to a diagnostic centre, which provides a pre-agreed commission to the doctor based on the total amount charged on the diagnostic tests. This process alone creates a burden on a poor patient and his or her family. This also encourages doctors to prescribe diagnostic tests that are not necessary. As a result, often families of patients are seen borrowing money to cover the cost of treatment for their loved ones.

To avoid this hassle, most middle and upper class families go to neighbouring India for treatment as the doctors there are said to be comparatively more compassionate and sincere.

Also, most people cannot afford private healthcare as it is too costly for them. Still, the life expectancy of Bangladeshis is gradually increasing and child death rate is decreasing. As a result, common people now need more healthcare than before.

Inadequate and insufficient public healthcare system is encouraging private healthcare to charge higher rates and packages. The government should find ways through which healthcare can be made affordable and holistic for citizens in the country.

Mohammed Sohel Hara

Banasree, Dhaka

[email protected]