Medical and health organisations based in Bangladesh

Medical and Health Organizations in Bangladesh are a pivotal part of the country's healthcare system, providing a wide range of services from primary healthcare to specialized medical treatment. These organizations play a crucial role in improving public health, conducting medical research, and offering education and training for healthcare professionals. This article provides an overview of the key medical and health organizations operating in Bangladesh.

Overview

Bangladesh, a country with a dense population, faces numerous health challenges, including infectious diseases, malnutrition, and a growing burden of non-communicable diseases. To address these issues, various government, non-governmental (NGO), and international organizations work collaboratively within the country.

Government Organizations

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is the primary government body responsible for health policy, planning, and implementation in Bangladesh. Under its umbrella, there are several important agencies and institutes:

• Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) - Oversees health services and the implementation of health programs across the country.
• Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council - Regulates medical and dental professionals, ensuring standards in training and practice.
• Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) - Focuses on disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, and public health research.

Non-Governmental Organizations

Numerous NGOs play a significant role in healthcare delivery, especially in rural and underserved areas. Notable organizations include:

• BRAC - One of the world's largest NGOs, BRAC runs extensive health, nutrition, and family planning programs across Bangladesh.
• Gonoshasthaya Kendra - Focuses on community health and has been instrumental in pioneering rural health service models.

International Organizations

Several international bodies support health initiatives in Bangladesh, including:

• World Health Organization (WHO) - Collaborates with the government to strengthen health systems and improve health outcomes.
• UNICEF - Works on improving maternal and child health, nutrition, and vaccination programs.

Specialized Institutions

Bangladesh also hosts specialized institutions that contribute to medical research and education:

• Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) - The premier postgraduate medical institution in the country.
• International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b) - A leading international health research institution focusing on infectious diseases, nutrition, and healthcare delivery.

Challenges and Future Directions

While significant progress has been made, the healthcare system in Bangladesh faces challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, shortage of healthcare professionals, and inequities in healthcare access. Strengthening primary healthcare, enhancing healthcare financing, and leveraging technology are seen as critical areas for future development.

See Also

• Healthcare in Bangladesh
• List of hospitals in Bangladesh