We are concerned about the situation at upazila health complexes where a severe shortage of doctors and essential staff is disrupting healthcare services. According to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), around 59 percent of doctor positions in these health complexes remain vacant, while absenteeism is another major barrier to providing treatment to rural patients. Many of these facilities also lack specialist doctors, forcing patients to seek treatment at district or medical college hospitals. With such inadequacies, what is the point of having these facilities?

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Union health centres need adequate medical staff

Staff and doctor shortages have been a persistent issue for the upazila health complexes but little action has been taken to address it. Recently, this daily published a report on the Kulaura Upazila Health Complex in Moulvibazar suffering from a similar shortage. The facility, serving a population of five lakh, has only two doctors. Similarly, the 50-bed Phulbari Upazila Health Complex in Dinajpur has only three regular doctors to serve an average of 80-90 patients daily. Patients unable to access services at these health centres are often forced to turn to private clinics, increasing their healthcare expenses.

At the Phulbari Health Complex, there are 182 positions for doctors, nurses, and fourth-class employees, but nearly half have remained unfilled for years. In Khulna division, 896 of the 1,327 doctor positions in upazila health complexes remain vacant. Meanwhile, Bandarban district is grappling with a shortage of over 300 staff, including doctors. Clearly, the crisis prevails across the country.

At the Phulbari Health Complex, there are 182 positions for doctors, nurses, and fourth-class employees, but nearly half have remained unfilled for years. In Khulna division, 896 of the 1,327 doctor positions in upazila health complexes remain vacant. Meanwhile, Bandarban district is grappling with a shortage of over 300 staff, including doctors. Clearly, the crisis prevails across the country. The reasons for this are well-known. Since the recruitment of doctors is conducted through the BCS exams, the lengthy recruitment process often delays appointment. Also, doctors posted at the upazila level often prefer living in Dhaka rather than staying in remote areas, disregarding the rules. Furthermore, many doctors, nurses, and other staff members frequently remain absent or on leave due to a lack of discipline and proper oversight. This must change.

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We need public health reform for steady economic growth

The government must develop a comprehensive plan to address the manpower shortage in local-level health complexes. As these facilities play a crucial role in delivering critical services at the grassroots level, they should be adequately staffed. The Public Administration Reform Commission has proposed the establishment of a dedicated Public Service Commission (Health) to manage recruitment, promotions, and other related activities in the health sector—which should be seriously considered to streamline healthcare operations and improve efficiency. Reform is crucial to ensuring healthcare for all.