Win public trust to save $5bn spent on overseas treatment, PM tells doctors

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday urged doctors to earn people's trust through compassionate, quality care and a humane approach, saying stronger confidence in the country's healthcare system could help prevent an annual outflow of around US$5 billion spent on treatment abroad, reports UNB.

"Every year, around US$5 billion flows out of the country as thousands of our people travel abroad for medical treatment. As a result, we also lose valuable foreign exchange," he said while addressing the inaugural programme of DMC Day-2026, organised to mark the 80th anniversary of Dhaka Medical College (DMC).

The Prime Minister said the situation could not be changed through laws or institutions alone without the help of the physicians.

Tarique said, as a political worker now entrusted with the responsibility of running the government, he expected both practising doctors and those who would join the profession in the future to help change the situation by strengthening people's trust and confidence in the country's doctors and healthcare system.

"Why can't we change this situation? Why can't we strengthen our people's trust and confidence in our doctors?... It is only possible through your humane approach and proper treatment " the Prime Minister told doctors, medical teachers and students.

"On the occasion of this anniversary, I have one expectation not only from DMC, but from every hospital and every medical college in Bangladesh-from all doctors and medical students. I hope that, in the future, the people of this country will have complete trust and  confidence in our doctors," he said. Highlighting the government's commitment to the health sector, Tarique said healthcare received the second-largest allocation in the national budget after education.

Prime Minister's wife Dr Zubaida Rahman, a former student of Dhaka Medical College, also attended the programme.

They were also each presented with a painting of Dhaka Medical College, while a documentary highlighting the institution's history and contributions to the country was screened during the programme.

Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain, State Minister for Health Dr MA Muhit, Principal of Dhaka Medical College Prof Md Mazharul Shaheen and Vice-Principal Prof Musarrat Sultana spoke at the event.