PM seeks doctors’ support to build humane healthcare system

TAM Report ||

Outlining government’s plans to raise the health sector allocation to 5 percent of GDP, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday urged physicians working at the grassroots to lead efforts to build an accessible, affordable, effective and humane healthcare system.

“You are the main drivers in turning our dream of a healthy nation into reality. We together with all want to build a healthcare system that is accessible, affordable, effective and humane for everyone,” he said while addressing the Upazila Health and Family Planning Officers (UHFPO) Conference-2026 at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka.

The Prime Minister said he firmly believes that the physicians will be able to establish an accountable, sustainable and people-centric health service.

“We expect each of you to turn your respective workplaces into model healthcare service centres in your own areas,” he told the health officers.

The Health Services Division under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare organised the conference.

Over 500 UHFPOs from across the country participated in the event where the Prime Minister also handed over awards to the best-performing officers in six categories.

The Prime Minister said the ideas he presented reflect the government’s manifesto, plans and overall vision for the health sector.

He stressed that the government alone cannot achieve everything and called for active cooperation from healthcare professionals. “The government cannot do it alone. We need your support. Everyone has to come forward,” said.

Tarique Rahman said even small, collective efforts can bring meaningful change. “I am not saying one person will do everything. But if all of us contribute a bit, change will surely come. If people in other countries can do it, we can do it too,” he added.

Urging doctors to stand beside people, he said, “As a citizen of this country, I request you to support the government and the people so that they can receive at least basic healthcare services without difficulty.”

Reassuring the health professionals, the Prime Minister said the government is committed to addressing their challenges and improving the overall system.

Among immediate concerns, he said, the government will prioritise ensuring security for doctors working in rural areas, and consider providing vehicles and drivers for them.

Highlighting long-term plans, Tarique Rahman said the government aims to gradually increase the health sector allocation to 5 percent of GDP.

He said the government plans to recruit 100,000 new health workers, 80 percent of whom will be women.