The government will install cardiac catheterization (Cath) laboratories in every upazila hospital across Bangladesh by the end of this year, Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md. Sakhawat Husain said on Sunday.
Speaking at a discussion marking World Population Day at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium, the minister said the initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen healthcare services nationwide. President Mohammed Shahabuddin attended the event as chief guest.
Sakhawat Husain said the government has taken a strict stance against faulty diagnostic services and unnecessary medical tests. Skilled laboratory technicians are being trained to operate the new Cath labs.
He also announced plans to renovate all Family Welfare Centres, health assistant centres and community clinics, with advanced screening facilities to be installed as part of expanded healthcare services in rural and remote areas.
The minister said recruitment is underway for 100,000 new health workers, including 80,000 women who will provide door-to-door counselling for pregnant women and new mothers. The programme aims to promote normal deliveries, breastfeeding and child nutrition.
He added that 50-bed dialysis centres are being established at every district medical college hospital, while 10-bed dialysis centres will be set up at every upazila hospital to improve access to treatment for low-income patients.
Other speakers included State Minister for Health and Family Welfare Dr M A Muhith, Health Secretary Md. Kamruzzaman Chowdhury, and senior officials from the health, medical education and family planning directorates.
FA/R
