Doctors must adopt service-orientated mindset to strengthen healthcare: minister

Doctors must adopt a service-orientated mindset in healthcare to improve patient care and strengthen Bangladesh’s medical system, Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister Abu Zafar Md Zahid Hossain has said.

Speaking at an international medical conference in Dhaka, the minister called on physicians to prioritise public service, emphasising their responsibility towards the people.

“We have a responsibility towards the people of the country. Therefore, doctors should come forward with a service-orientated mentality,” Abu Zafar Md Zahid Hossain said.

The remarks were made at the closing session of the International Heart Failure Conference, jointly organised by the Heart Failure Division of Bangladesh Medical University and the Bangladesh Cardiac Society.

The event, held in Dhaka, focused on bridging gaps between drugs, medical devices and surgical treatment in managing heart failure, reflecting broader policy efforts to modernise healthcare delivery.

Zahid Hossain highlighted the government’s commitment to strengthening the healthcare system, particularly in tackling both communicable and non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular conditions.

He noted that Bangladesh’s healthcare framework must become more effective, integrated and people-orientated to ensure services reach grassroots communities.

Referring to institutional development, the minister said the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases was established under the leadership of Ziaur Rahman and has since evolved into a major specialised centre for cardiac treatment.

Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain also addressed the conference, stressing the need for coordinated efforts among doctors, pharmaceutical companies and the government to improve public health outcomes.

He described the medical profession as a critical pillar of society and urged doctors to maintain a strong sense of humanity in patient care.

Officials said the conference reflects ongoing policy dialogue aimed at strengthening Bangladesh’s healthcare infrastructure, improving service delivery and ensuring equitable access to treatment.