Abstract

Author:
Moriom Khatun Letunjira, Foysal Ahmed, Afsana Akter, Mahadie Hasan Jahad, Asma Hafiz, Shekh Mohammad Mostafa, Swrov Ahamad

Doi: 10.26480/jhcdc.01.2025.24.28

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License CC BY 4.0, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

In the quest for universal health coverage, Bangladesh has made significant strides in improving public health indicators over the past few decades. Major achievements include reductions in maternal and child mortality rates, the successful eradication of polio, and substantial progress in controlling infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and malaria. These accomplishments have been driven by a combination of government initiatives, international aid, and non-governmental organization (NGO) efforts. Despite these gains, the country’s public health progress remains an unfinished symphony, as health inequities continue to pose a significant challenge. This research article aims to explore the trajectory of public health progress in Bangladesh, with a particular focus on the socio-economic determinants contributing to health disparities and proposes strategies to advance health equity. The analysis is rooted in a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from national health surveys and government reports with qualitative insights from interviews with healthcare providers, policymakers, and community leaders. The quantitative analysis highlights a paradox: while overall health indicators have improved, stark disparities in health outcomes persist between different population groups. For instance, the infant mortality rate in rural areas is substantially higher than in urban centers, underscoring the uneven distribution of healthcare resources and services. Furthermore, marginalized groups such as ethnic minorities, urban slum dwellers, and the rural poor face significant barriers to accessing quality healthcare. Qualitative findings reveal systemic issues contributing to these disparities, including inadequate healthcare infrastructure in rural areas, socio-economic barriers, and the marginalization of vulnerable populations. Healthcare providers report challenges such as insufficient funding, lack of trained personnel, and limited access to essential medical supplies. Policymakers acknowledge the need for targeted interventions but cite resource constraints and bureaucratic hurdles as significant obstacles. Community leaders emphasize the importance of addressing underlying socio-economic determinants, such as poverty, education, and social exclusion, to achieve meaningful progress in health equity. The article argues that achieving health equity in Bangladesh requires a multifaceted approach that goes beyond the health sector. Strategies should include improving healthcare infrastructure in underserved areas, enhancing the quality and availability of health services, and implementing community-based health programs. Equally important is addressing the broader socio-economic determinants of health. This includes initiatives to improve education, create economic opportunities, and promote social inclusion. Furthermore, the role of veterinary medicine and animal health in public health is highlighted, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human and animal health. The One Health approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health, is proposed as a crucial strategy for addressing health disparities in Bangladesh. In conclusion, while Bangladesh has made commendable progress in public health, the journey towards achieving health equity remains ongoing. The pursuit of equitable healthcare is a complex challenge that requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, healthcare providers, and the community. By embracing a holistic approach that addresses both health and its social determinants, Bangladesh can move closer to completing its unfinished symphony of public health progress and ensuring a healthier and more equitable future for all its citizens.