President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Thursday urged doctors’ leaders to come forward with clear and specific plans and proposals to address long-standing mismanagement in the health sector and ensure healthcare for all.

He made the call when a 20-member delegation of the Doctors Association of Bangladesh (DAB), led by its Chief Adviser Prof Dr Farhad Halim Donar and President Prof Dr Harun Al Rashid, paid a courtesy call on him at Bangabhaban.

The President noted that the nation has failed to achieve desired progress in the health sector owing to prolonged mismanagement.

"There was no proper and comprehensive planning on how many doctors, nurses and technologists we need, how much medical equipment is required, or what kind of infrastructure should be developed," he stated.

Highlighting that the current government has allocated the highest-ever amount in the national budget for the health sector, Mirza Fakhrul asserted that these funds must be utilized to establish a well-organized healthcare system.

He stressed the necessity of proper planning for recruiting new doctors, expanding infrastructure, and procuring medical equipment.

The President also emphasized ending the practice of lobbying for promotions and postings, insisting that competent individuals be appointed to appropriate positions.

Furthermore, he urged physicians to play a stronger role in research activities to contribute to health sector development.

Referring to the rapid proliferation of clinics and diagnostic centers nationwide, Mirza Fakhrul remarked that such establishments are "damaging" the healthcare system and called on the relevant authorities to bring these institutions under proper management and regulation.

The President expressed gratitude to doctors for their assistance and cooperation in treating former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, as well as leaders and activists injured during the July-August Mass Uprising 2024 and those who suffered injuries and repression under the previous administration, while also thanking them for providing treatment to him personally.

During the meeting, DAB Chief Adviser Donar expressed concern over attacks on doctors while performing their duties, noting that such incidents generate negative reactions among physicians, and sought government cooperation to prevent such occurrences.

DAB President Harun thanked the present government for its sincere efforts to improve the national healthcare system and underscored the need for formulating and implementing health sector policies in consultation with all stakeholders.

The President’s secretaries and senior officials were also present during the audience.