Despite a crippling shortage of doctors and infrastructure, the Morelganj Upazila Health Complex in Bagerhat continues to deliver essential healthcare services to the coastal region's 5 lakh residents.
Currently, the 50-bed hospital is forced to operate within a 19-bed facility because the construction of its new building has been halted for two years. The staffing crisis is equally severe: out of 51 sanctioned doctor posts, only 15 are filled. With seven doctors on deputation and one on maternity leave, a team of just six doctors—including Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer (UH&FPO) Dr. Kamal Hossain Mufti—is managing the entire patient load. Massive vacancies also persist across nursing, technological, and support staff roles.
Despite these hurdles, the hospital treats 200 to 300 outdoor patients daily, alongside 40 to 50 indoor admissions. Patients receive 52 types of tablets/capsules and 10 types of syrups free of charge. Furthermore, the hospital provides specialized care and free medicine to over 1,600 registered patients with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes and hypertension, with 50 to 60 new patients registering daily, according to Resident Medical Officer Dr. Mohammad Sifat Khan.
Recently, hospital authorities held a press conference to refute claims made by a local group alleging medicine shortages. Dr. Mufti clarified that medicine supplies are adequate and urged the public not to be misled by misinformation. He also noted that, under directives from the Ministry of Health, joint drives with the Upazila Executive Officer will soon be conducted to ensure local private clinics adhere strictly to medical regulations.
