Published: 11:56 AM, 03 August 2026
Accredited laboratories essential to reduce overseas treatment costs: MA Muhith
State Minister for Health Dr. MA Muhith on Sunday said establishing internationally accredited diagnostic laboratories across Bangladesh is essential to reducing the cost of overseas medical treatment and saving a significant amount of foreign exchange.
He made the remarks while addressing a policy-making seminar as the chief guest at the Bangladesh Institute of Management (BIM) in the capital. The seminar was organized by the Bangladesh Accreditation Board.
Muhith said thousands of Bangladeshis travel abroad each year for advanced medical treatment. However, because foreign physicians often lack confidence in test reports produced by local laboratories, patients are frequently required to undergo the same diagnostic tests again, resulting in additional expenses and treatment delays.
"If more internationally accredited laboratories are established in the country, patients will be able to complete most of their essential diagnostic tests before travelling abroad, significantly reducing both treatment costs and inconvenience," he said.
The state minister noted that Bangladesh currently has more than 10,000 diagnostic laboratories, but only a small number have obtained international accreditation.
Rather than imposing legal restrictions immediately, Muhith stressed the need to raise awareness among laboratory owners and management boards about the benefits of maintaining international standards.
"If owners understand that accreditation enhances public trust while also strengthening their business prospects, they will be more willing to pursue international recognition," he said.
Highlighting the importance of restoring public confidence in the healthcare system, Muhith said the country's health sector cannot progress by relying solely on hospitals and physicians. He emphasized that improving diagnostic quality, preventing food adulteration and strengthening preventive healthcare are equally critical to reducing the burden of diseases such as cancer and kidney and liver disorders.
Industry Secretary Abdun Naser Khan, Director General of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) Dr. Probhat Chandra Biswas and other senior officials also spoke at the seminar.
