Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Sakhawat Hossain on Wednesday visited Dhaka Medical College Hospital and said that despite patient overload, staff shortages, and infrastructural limitations, hospitals are taking steps to improve service quality.
The minister noted that hospitals like Dhaka Medical College receive nearly 1,500 extra patients daily.
“Often two to three patients have to share a single bed. The number of doctors and supporting staff, including anesthetists and fourth-grade employees, is insufficient, yet doctors and nurses are working tirelessly day and night,” he said.
During an inspection of the hospital’s operation theaters (OTs), the minister observed that while the facilities are clean, most OTs fall short of international standards. “Only one OT currently meets international standards. We will gradually modernise all OTs so that patients can receive surgery in a better environment,” he added.
The minister also criticised the hospital’s laundry system. Without an in-house washing plant, the hospital relies on contractors, which has led to complaints about poor quality.
He instructed the hospital director to deduct contractor payments for lapses and ensure strict supervision.
On patient meals, the minister said breakfast and lunch are being provided and that no reports of spoiled food had been received.
He also highlighted that unrestricted 24-hour access and high patient presence have affected hospital cleanliness.
“We will implement scheduled access and strict controls to maintain hygiene,” he said, emphasising the need for discipline in all hospitals to improve services nationwide.
Addressing allegations of middlemen in patient admissions, the minister warned that unauthorised fees, trolley trading, or patient allocation irregularities would be strictly dealt with.
The health minister also outlined plans to expand trauma centres and essential medical services at district hospitals across the country, ensuring rural patients can access care locally, which will reduce the strain on Dhaka hospitals.
Highlighting the government’s commitment, he said that within 12 to 13 days of assuming office, he has already begun inspecting multiple hospitals.
“Even with limited resources, we are determined to bring healthcare to the doorstep of the people. Cooperation from journalists and the public will be essential,” he added.
