‘Achieving UHC not possible without funding’

Describing funding as key to implementing universal health coverage (UHC) in the country, a health expert has said the scheme cannot be a reality if the government does not provide the required funds.

Dr Jahir Uddin Ahmed, a member of the Board of Directors at Social Marketing Company, also said achieving UHC is not possible without the government’s strong willingness.

This is because it requires funds as well as subsidies, he said.

“The government remains silent about where funds will come from,” he said while addressing an event titled “Integrated Community Development for Better Health: Perspectives from Bangladesh” at Sheraton Dhaka on Tuesday.

The programme was organised by the Bangladesh office of URC, a US-based organisation, to discuss ways to ensure the delivery of high-quality healthcare at all levels in Bangladesh and beyond.

Bangladesh has joined the global community in committing to achieve UHC by 2030 under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

Bangladesh mission Director of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Kathryn Stevens, who was another keynote speaker at the event, highlighted how USAID is helping the country by providing funding and technical support to ensure better health for all.

Riad Mahmud, country director of Max Foundation, said the integrated development approach is much more effective in rural areas, especially in remote places, as health services are mostly available in cities.

URC Chief Operating Officer Maureen Shauket moderated the programme.