Bakerganj, Barishal: Patients and their attendants at Bakerganj Upazila Health Complex in Barishal have expressed growing concerns over poor-quality food, a shortage of safe drinking water, and the overall standard of healthcare services. Allegations have also been raised regarding irregularities in service delivery, the attendance of doctors, and the conduct of some nurses and hospital staff. As a result, many patients seeking treatment at the government-run hospital are reportedly facing significant hardship.
According to several patients and their family members, the food provided to admitted patients is of poor quality and often unsuitable for their nutritional needs. Instead of receiving healthy and balanced meals, many patients are served food that does not meet acceptable standards. Consequently, families are forced to purchase food from outside the hospital, placing an additional financial burden on low-income households.
Patients and attendants have also complained about a severe shortage of safe drinking water within the hospital premises. They said the lack of an adequate supply of clean water compels them to buy bottled water from outside. They described the absence of such a basic facility at a government healthcare institution as deeply disappointing.
Several patients further alleged that doctors are not always available during scheduled duty hours, leading to delays in treatment and disruptions in healthcare services. Some also claimed that certain doctors do not treat patients with the compassion and professionalism expected of healthcare providers. According to the complainants, the attitude of some medical personnel appears more authoritative than service-oriented, leaving patients dissatisfied.
Allegations have also been made against some nurses and hospital employees. According to the complainants, unofficial payments are sometimes demanded before services are provided, and those who are unable or unwilling to pay reportedly face delays or other forms of inconvenience. However, no official response from the accused individuals was available at the time of reporting.
Local residents and members of civil society believe that although the government provides the necessary manpower, medicines, and logistical support for the Upazila Health Complex, effective implementation and regular monitoring remain inadequate. They stressed that stronger oversight and greater accountability are essential to improving the quality of healthcare services.
When contacted, the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) of Bakerganj said that the allegations would be taken seriously. He stated that the complaints would be investigated thoroughly and that appropriate action would be taken if any irregularities are found. He also emphasized the administration's commitment to improving the quality of public healthcare services.
Local residents hope that the relevant authorities will promptly review the overall situation at the hospital, ensure an adequate supply of safe drinking water, improve the quality of food served to patients, and strengthen discipline and accountability in healthcare delivery. They believe such measures are essential to restoring public confidence in the government healthcare system.