An appeal to doctors

In Bangladesh, the majority of the people are financially vulnerable. More than 12.9 per cent of people, equivalent to over 20.64 million individuals, are extremely poor, while over 80 per cent, or 128 million people, are classified as poor. For them, access to modern medical services remains a distant dream. When someone falls ill, the entire family feels apprehensive due to exorbitant medical costs.

Unfortunately, the behaviour of some doctors exacerbates this anxiety as they routinely recommend tests and prescribe expensive medications. Doctors, being highly educated individuals in our society, should exercise greater caution when ordering tests and prescribing medicines. They should refrain from unnecessary tests and take into account the price, quality, and effectiveness of medication before making recommendations.

Doctors should prioritise prescribing affordable medicines of high quality, ensuring that patients receive effective treatment without unnecessary financial burden. While doctors are not typically viewed as greedy individuals like most businessmen, their conscientious advice and prescriptions have the potential to save money for many patients who seek their care.

Md Ashraf Hossin

82, East Bashabo, Dhaka-1214