Doctors to reach people, not vice versa: Health Minister

Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Sakhawat Hossain Bakul has said the ministry will be transformed into a corruption- and syndicate-free institution.

"People will not have to chase doctors; doctors will go to the people," he said, underscoring the government's plan to deliver healthcare services at the doorstep and make medical care easily accessible and universal.

He expressed hope that the government's objectives would be fully realised under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

The minister made the remarks on Friday afternoon while speaking to journalists after exchanging greetings with administrative officials and party leaders and activists at his residence in Hafizpur village under Monohardi Upazila of Narsingdi.

He said the government bears equal responsibility toward those who voted for it and those who did not. "Rising above vengeance and setting aside animosity, we want to build a new and prosperous Bangladesh in the spirit of the Liberation War, with the participation of people from all sides," he added.

Sakhawat Hossain Bakul said there are plans to establish a medical college in Narsingdi and sought public support and prayers for the initiative. "Similar institutions will be set up elsewhere in the country where necessary," he said.

He also said steps would be taken to make non-operational facilities functional as soon as possible, including the 250-bed hospital in Narsingdi. In addition, he expressed his intention to introduce two ICU units in the district.