Opposition Leader in the National Parliament and Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Dr Shafiqur Rahman has expressed concern over inadequate government funding for measles treatment at the Bangladesh Shishu Hospital and Institute.
He made the remarks while speaking to journalists on Saturday following a visit to the hospital.
Dr Shafiqur Rahman stated that the institution is not fully government-run but operates as a statutory body. “Previously, the government allocated Tk 30 crore annually, but this year the amount has been reduced to Tk 28 crore. Of that, only Tk 7 crore has been released in the first quarter, with the remainder expected later. However, this funding is insufficient to operate the hospital effectively,” he said.
He noted that the hospital has a capacity of 700 beds, including 250 designated as free beds, while patients in the remaining beds must cover their own expenses. “Despite limitations, the hospital authorities are managing as best they can,” he added.
Sharing his observations, Dr Shafiqur Rahman emphasized the need for greater government attention to the facility.
“We visited to understand the current concerning situation surrounding measles in the country. This is the only specialized, government-supported children’s hospital in Bangladesh, which results in patients coming here from across the country. The hospital is struggling to cope with the pressure, and many patients are being turned away without treatment, with no clarity on where they seek care afterward,” he said.
While acknowledging the government’s initiative to establish an intensive care unit (ICU) for measles patients, he stressed the need to expand the hospital’s capacity. “The number of beds should be increased, and there is scope for expansion. If capacity could be raised to 2,000 beds, it would significantly ease the burden on patients and their families,” he added.
During the visit, the Jamaat Ameer also pledged his party’s support in standing beside the hospital during this challenging time.
