Fixing physicians' consultation fees

Physicians should not act like greedy traders. Those who have an ambition to earn huge money should not come to the healthcare profession. Regrettably, however in Bangladesh, a patient visiting a doctor has to pay hefty fees. A specialised physician earns at least Tk 20,000 every evening (20 patients at the rate of Tk 1,000 per head) from private practice, that is, after attending their regular government jobs during daytime. Needless to say, many doctors attend more than 20 patients every evening. If the government fixes Tk 200 as consultation fee for each patient, a doctor can still earn at least Tk 100,000 in 25 working days in a month in addition to the salary and other service benefits.

Some years ago, the authorities concerned fixed doctors' fees and charges for diagnostic tests. The fees and charges should be updated and enforced strongly. The present diagnostic charges of the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) may be considered as the standard. The evening private practice fees fixed by the university can also be followed for different categories of physicians. The fixed fees and charges should be publicised in print and electronic media. Any violation of these fees and charges should be dealt with an iron hand. This will certainly help patients have health services at affordable costs. The Health Ministry should take necessary steps to fix charges for different tests and doctors' consultation fees, and penalties in case of any violation.

Md Ashraf Hossain,

120, Middle Bashabo, Sabujbag, Dhaka

mah120cb@yahoo.com