Public, pvt sectors must work together to improve healthcare system

BNP Standing Committee member and director of the Ziaur Rahman Foundation, Dr Farhad Halim Donar, has called for greater cooperation between the public and private sectors to improve the country’s healthcare system.

“The institution (Ziaur Rahman Foundation) is making a significant contribution to the country’s healthcare sector,” he said, expressing hope that it would continue to prosper and advance.

He made the remarks while addressing the inaugural ceremony of the 20th anniversary of Mendy Dental College and Hospital, Mendy Day 2026, and a reunion of former students and teachers as the chief guest at Mendiang’s Green Ground in River View Model Town in Rayerbazar on Saturday.

The daylong programme was held in two sessions and included a rally, an inaugural ceremony, a reminiscing session, an award and recognition ceremony, and cultural programmes.

Sheikh Rabiul Alam, Minister for Road Transport and Bridges, Railways and Shipping, along with the chairman of the governing body of Mendy Dental College and Hospital, teachers, students, doctors, officials and other guests, attended the event.

Farhad Halim Donar said 30 per cent of people seeking healthcare services receive treatment at government hospitals, while the remaining 70 per cent receive services from the private sector. Therefore, fundamental improvements in the country’s healthcare system will not be possible unless the public and private sectors work together, he added.

He further said the prime minister has increased the health budget and prioritised the principle that “prevention is better than cure.” He also stressed the importance of maintaining proper hygiene to reduce dental problems.

Efforts are underway to introduce a referral system alongside developments in the health and pharmaceutical sectors, he said. 

Initiatives are also being taken to formulate health protection, medical protection and patient protection laws to ensure the safety of doctors and patients, he added.

He urged the introduction of modern technologies in Bangladesh to provide advanced healthcare services, saying that this could also attract people from abroad to seek treatment in the country.