Representational Image.

DHAKA, May 21, 2025 (BSS) – Experts at a conference here today laid emphasis on expanding digital health infrastructure in rural areas to ensure universal health services.

Digital healthcare has the potential to redefine healthcare accessibility, by using an integrated health ecosystem, they said while speaking at a session of the ‘Youth’s Perspectives on Reforms: Employment, Health and Technology’ conference.  

In this context, they mentioned that empowering youth to leverage technology is crucial, as they hold the potential to transform Bangladesh’s healthcare system.  

CPD Executive Director Dr Fahmida Khatun chaired the session held at the Bangladesh China Friendship Conference Center (BCFCC) in the city. 

CPD Programme Associate Preetilata Khondaker Huq delivered the key note speech.

Public Health Specialist Dr Lelin Choudhury, Dhaka University Economic Department Professor Dr Rumana Haque, United International University Computer Science and Engineering Department Professor Dr Khondokar Abdullah-Al-Mamun, Member of the Health Sector Reform Commission Professor Dr. Liaquat Ali , Member Heath Sector Reforms Commission Dr Abu Muhammad Zakir Hossain, National Citizen Party (NCP) Senior Joint Member Secretary Dr Tasnim Jara and Assistant Secretary of the International Affairs of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Barrister Rumin Farhana were the discussants at the session.

CPD Joint Director Dialogue and Outreach Avra Bhattacharjee moderated the open discussion. 

Lelin Choudhury urged the youth to create a bridge for ensuring culturally oriented health services for all. 

“We have to create a health sector in line with our culture. Then we can ensure proper health services for all,” he added.       

Preetilata Khondaker Huq said limited digital infrastructure in rural areas, limited capacity or skill of healthcare workers of being able to use digital tools, lack of governance and high bureaucracy, multiple digital platforms exist (eMIS, HRIS, DHIS2), but lack interoperability, low digital literacy and gender based digital divide are the challenges in integrating technology in the healthcare sector.