Prime Minister Backs Local Ventilator and Oxygen Machine Development

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has assured full government support for testing, quality verification and commercial production of two locally developed medical devices a ventilator and a high-flow oxygen machine.

"The government is attaching the highest priority to research and innovation in healthcare. We will provide all necessary support for testing, quality verification and commercial production of these locally developed medical devices," he said at a meeting held Monday afternoon at the Prime Minister's Office, according to Deputy Press Secretary Hasan Shiplu.

The Prime Minister praised the experts and researchers behind the devices, developed using indigenous technology and pledged assistance to prepare them for practical use and commercialization. Experts presented the devices' effectiveness, prospects and future development plans during the meeting.

Officials said the devices, developed by two separate specialist teams, could be introduced in hospitals nationwide and potentially exported abroad once they clear regulatory approval and clinical trials. Being locally made, the devices are expected to cost less, making advanced healthcare more affordable and reducing Bangladesh's reliance on imported medical technology.

The ventilator, intended for critically ill patients with severe respiratory issues, will undergo further testing to meet international safety and performance standards. The high-flow oxygen machine with designed for common respiratory conditions also can operate without electricity making it ideal for remote areas and ambulance use during emergencies.

The meeting was attended by Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain, State Minister Dr M A Muhit, PM's Special Assistant on Health Dr S M Ziauddin Hyder, Health Services Division Secretary Md Quamruzzaman Chowdhury, BUET Pro-Vice Chancellor Dr Mohammad Shariful Islam and other senior officials.