The government plans to launch a National E-Health Platform to bring Bangladesh’s health system under an integrated digital framework. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman ordered that operations begin through a pilot project in several districts. The decision was discussed at a meeting on integrated information technology systems in healthcare, chaired by the prime minister on Saturday at the Prime Minister’s Office in Tejgaon.

Participants discussed the platform’s possible structure, operating method and use in health services. The pilot will assess its effectiveness, potential problems, cost and feasibility before any expansion. Tarique Rahman instructed officials to ensure effective use of information technology so that people can access benefits easily and the process of receiving medical services becomes simpler.

The prime minister stressed secure storage of patients’ necessary health information and timely access for relevant doctors and healthcare institutions. He also called for data security, personal privacy, ease of use, cost efficiency and long-term operational sustainability. Engineer Zakaria Swapan gave a presentation on the platform, while health, ICT and other senior government officials attended the meeting.