Health Minister calls for increased allocation for mental health, stern message over Pabna Hospital

Stating that Pabna Mental Hospital will no longer be allowed to be used as a recreation spot, the health minister said strict measures will be taken within the next 24 hours to ensure a suitable environment for patients. At the event, he also said discussions are ongoing with China, Turkey and Pakistan for training 500 newly recruited doctors. Besides, initiatives will also be taken to arrange advanced robotic surgery in the country.

At the event, State Minister for Health Dr. M A Muhit said mental health services will not remain Dhaka-centric only; with the help of modern technology, they will be expanded to the district level so that people can receive expert consultation from home. The meeting, presided over by Director of the National Institute of Mental Health Prof. Dr. Saifun Nahar, was attended by head of the Health Emergencies Department of the World Health Organization (WHO) Anthony Eshfeni and Director of Bangladesh Shishu Hospital and Institute Dr. A K M Azizul Haque.