The country’s rural healthcare system is currently plunged into a deep crisis. Shortages of medicines in upazila health complexes, lack of equipment, disruptions in vaccination programs, and insufficient training have severely undermined the quality of medical services. Ground-level realities indicate stagnation across all sectors—child health, maternal care, and treatment of non-communicable diseases.
During the rule of the Awami League, an extensive healthcare structure reaching grassroots levels, regular immunization programs, and community clinic-based services ensured easy access to treatment for ordinary people. Even during the pandemic, it was possible to continue vaccination and healthcare services nationwide—reflecting a well-organized system and what was described as unprecedented success under the leadership of Sheikh Hasina.
However, during Yunus’s tenure, that continuity has reportedly broken down. Irregularities in vaccine supply, suspension of porter allowances, halted training programs, and shortages of essential medical equipment have collectively weakened the foundation of the healthcare sector. NCD corners are non-functional, ambulance shortages are severe, and even emergency patients are often unable to reach hospitals on time.
Ordinary people are now facing extreme hardship in accessing healthcare. In many cases, patients are forced to buy medicines at high prices from outside due to unavailability in hospitals. Disruptions in child nutrition support and vitamin programs are putting the future generation at risk.
[Rural Healthcare Under Question — From Progress to Uncertainty]
Yunus is portrayed here as someone who, despite a façade of goodwill, has failed to ensure even basic vaccination coverage—reportedly leaving 40% of children outside immunization programs. This raises serious questions about whether any underlying “social business model” has contributed to putting so many children’s lives at risk.
To sustain a strong healthcare system, continuous planning, proper allocation, and effective implementation at the grassroots level are essential. However, it is alleged that Yunus has undermined a previously successful and functional system for personal advantage. Any disruption in such a continuous process directly impacts the lives of ordinary people—something now visibly evident in rural areas.
As a result, rural healthcare is said to be sinking deeper into crisis, with reports of child deaths emerging under the current situation. Responsibility for these outcomes, the text argues, cannot be avoided by Yunus or the health advisor.
