The government is set to launch state-run pharmacies at all public hospitals across Bangladesh to ensure access to quality medicines at affordable prices. According to the Ministry of Health, around 250 essential medicines will be made available at one-third of the current retail cost.
Dr Sayedur Rahman, Special Assistant Professor at the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, confirmed the initiative on Tuesday (8 April). The move aims to reduce the burden of medical expenses that often push patients into financial hardship.
Dr Rahman noted that the pharmacies could meet the treatment needs of up to 85% of patients, calling it a “revolutionary step” for the healthcare sector. He also acknowledged the challenge of preventing theft and misuse, adding that digital tracking systems will be introduced to ensure transparency.
To support the initiative, the government plans to expand the production capacity of Essential Drugs Company Limited (EDCL) and increase the annual medicine procurement budget, which currently stands at Tk1,300 crore.