Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain issued directives to the authorities of 250-bed Habiganj Sadar Hospital after a surprise inspection on Saturday exposed staff shortages, poor hygiene, administrative irregularities and complaints from patients.
During the unannounced visit, the minister toured several wards and spoke with patients waiting at the ticket counter.
Patients alleged that they were being deprived of proper medical services and complained about the hospital’s poor environment, broker syndicates and administrative irregularities.
The minister instructed hospital authorities to address shortages of physicians and other manpower and improve the quality of healthcare services.
“No negligence or irregularity in ensuring healthcare for ordinary people would be tolerated,” he said.
He also directed the local administration to take necessary measures to improve hospital services and eliminate broker syndicates operating within the hospital.
During an inspection of the hospital dispensary, the minister found pharmacist Regan Ahmed absent without approved leave. He immediately ordered the authorities to take action against the pharmacist.