Health Minister warns Ad-din hospital of license cancellation over newborn deaths

Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md. Sakhawat Hossain has announced that Ad-Din Hospital faces severe legal consequences, including the potential permanent cancellation of its operating license, following the recent deaths of six newborns at the facility.

Speaking at a press briefing at his Minto Road residence on Saturday, the minister revealed that a formal show-cause notice has been issued to the hospital management. 

The authorities have until Sunday afternoon to provide a comprehensive explanation for the tragedy. 
"If their response fails to satisfy the ministry, we will proceed with the highest legal penalties to ensure public safety and accountability," Hossain stated. 

He confirmed that a criminal case is already underway, and further executive actions will be dictated by the ongoing investigation.

Shifting focus to broader healthcare reforms, the minister elaborated on a new government master plan to decentralize emergency medical services. 

Under the direction of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the government is set to launch a tiered ambulance network designed to reach patients in remote villages.

This project features three distinct types of ambulances tailored for specific routes: village-to-upazila, upazila-to-district, and district-to-capital transfers. 

To keep costs low and ensure durability, these electric ambulances will be manufactured locally using designs from the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET). The vehicles will be equipped with modern life-support systems and oxygen facilities, specifically engineered to navigate the country’s unique road conditions. 

A pilot version of this service will soon debut in a selected upazila.

Addressing the rising seasonal threat of dengue, Minister Hossain noted that nationwide cleanliness and awareness campaigns are in full swing. 

Rallies have been held from Dhaka’s Rabindra Sarani to various district towns to educate the public on mosquito control. 

He assured the public that hospitals are fully stocked with the necessary medications to treat dengue patients, while urging citizens to maintain clean environments to prevent further outbreaks.