UK-based independent policy institute Chatham House has said Bangladesh would require a major reform in its healthcare sector to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
"Public finance is a key factor in UHC to build a healthy nation. However, public financing for the healthcare sector is low in Bangladesh. It need to be increased," Robert Yates, executive director of Centre for Universal Health at Chatham House, told a press conference at the Directorate Generate of Health Services (DGHS) building in Dhaka on Thursday.
"We are excited by the prospects here in Bangladesh in achieving UHC," he added.
The press conference was arranged by the DGHS in this regard.
In a presentation, Yates mentioned that Bangladesh has excellent track record on the health MDGs, success of community clinics initiative, strong local pharmaceutical sector, and a big scope to increase public spending.
"UHC and health system reforms can deliver nationwide results, quickly bringing political benefits," he said.
He also mentioned that because of the huge political costs and benefits involved, the UHC needs the attention of the head of the state.
"Successful UHC reforms need full cooperation across government and the Finance Ministry needs encouragement to allocate more to healthcare," he added.
At the press conference, DGHS Director General Abul Kalam Azad said: "Experts from the Chatham House will help us to find out how much financing is needed, in which ways, and how much time will be required to achieve UHC."
