Locals complain of irregular services in Bhola community clinic

Residents of Char Fesson upazila' Nurabad union in Bhola district have raised concerns over the irregular operation of Nazir Memberbari Community Clinic, which is intended to provide essential healthcare and free medicines to marginalised populations.

 
The clinic, established by the government to deliver health services to remote communities, is supposed to operate six days a week. 

Community Health Care Providers (CHCPs), Health Assistants (HAs), and Family Planning Assistants (FPAs) are meant to provide services in rotation, ensuring that at least two healthcare workers are available daily to treat patients. Free distribution of 27 essential medicines, maternal and child care and even cancer screening are part of the services offered. 

However, locals say the clinic remains closed for most days, and healthcare providers often fail to maintain regular hours. Allegations have been particularly directed at CHCP Nusrat Jahan, who reportedly arrives only when contacted and often leaves soon after. Other staff members, including HA Ganesh Chandra Sutar and FPA Suraiya Khatun, are also accused of irregular attendance. 

Local resident Tabarak Ullah said, "Since I can remember, the clinic only opens one or two days a week. Nusrat Jahan comes only when someone calls her; otherwise, she doesn't show up." 

Another resident, Mosleuddin, added, "She comes occasionally, and if no one is waiting, she leaves immediately. It's rare to see her there every day." Farmers and other residents rely heavily on the clinic for treatment of common illnesses like fever, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. Amir Hossain, a local farmer, said that even when he fell ill in July, no medicine was available, forcing him to buy it from the market. Almas Hossain noted that many residents are uneducated or busy with work, making it difficult for them to wait long hours for services that are often unavailable. 

CHCP Nusrat Jahan defended herself, saying, "I come regularly, but my child is only three months old, which sometimes causes delays. The HA and FPA also do not come regularly." 

Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer Dr Shovon Kumar Basak said, "We will investigate the complaints and take necessary action if needed."