'Formulate health policy through discussion'
The health rights activists yesterday demanded the government increase the timeframe of giving opinion on the draft health policy which is posted on the website.
Criticising the provision of giving opinions through a website (www.mohfw.gov.bd), they also suggested changing the system and organising view exchange meetings for the people as still many don't have the access to internet service.
At a press conference organised by Health Movement at the Bangladesh Medical Association (BMA) auditorium in the city, the rights activists said the draft policy encourages the user fee policy from the well-off people which might lead the poor to face discrimination in getting health service.
They also criticised that the draft policy does not emphasise the importance of improving the public health system.
Furthermore, it is more like a 'treatment policy' as it missed food, nutrition and environment issue which is related to health directly, the activists said.
Even there is no indication of involvement of different ministries including agriculture, food, environment, industry and commerce ministry, they added.
Prevention of diseases is also neglected in the draft policy, they said, adding that at least three more months should be given to the people to deliver their opinions and it must be formulated through open discussions.
Farida Akhter of UBINIG, Syed Mahbubul Alam, Dr Morshed Chowdhury, Dr Mesbah Uddin Ahmed and Shima Das Shimu spoke at the programme.
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