Form task force to draft ‘Health Commission Act’

The government should fast-track the implementation process of the Health Reform Commission's recommendations, with priority on recognising primary healthcare as a fundamental right, overhauling the essential medicines list, and ensuring fair drug pricing, public health experts urged yesterday.

The call came at a discussion organised by the Institute of Health Economics of Dhaka University at Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban.

The speakers also urged the formation of a task force to draft a proposed "Bangladesh Health Commission Act".

The Health Reform Commission, formed by the interim government on November 17 last year, submitted its final report on May 5.

The 322-page document outlines 32 major recommendations to reform the country's health system, focusing particularly on strengthening primary care, improving drug affordability, and enhancing governance.

Experts stressed the need for consensus between interim and political governments to ensure effective implementation. While acknowledging flaws in the report — including issues with language and coordination — speakers emphasised the urgency of progressing with actionable items.

Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman, executive chairman of the Power and Participation Research Centre (PPRC), who moderated the open discussion, said, "Some within the interim government believe political administrations will not implement these reforms -- perhaps that assumption is misplaced. Political governments respond to public demand. The interim government can certainly get the ball rolling. We must seize the low-hanging fruit."

He also highlighted the need for closer engagement with the private sector, describing it as a key stakeholder.

"There's a vast disparity in service quality -- from excellent to extremely poor -- that warrants immediate attention," he said.

On health literacy, Dr Zillur added: "We must focus on the social dynamics of how people access and demand healthcare. This should be brought into the mainstream public discourse."

Presenting the keynote, IHE Professor Dr Syed Abdul Hamid outlined the report's key findings and proposed implementation strategy.

"The commission has done its part. It's now time to help the government operationalise these recommendations," he said.

He reiterated the need for a legal framework to establish a Bangladesh Health Commission. "A draft law must be prepared by a dedicated task force and approved by the chief adviser."

IHE Professor Dr Shafiun N. Shimul and Institute Director Dr Sharmeen Mobin Bhuiyan also spoke, stressing institutional reform and evidence-based policymaking.