Health Ministry Directs Technologists and Pharmacists to Return to Work

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has instructed medical technologists and pharmacists to withdraw their ongoing programmes and return to work. The directive was issued through a circular signed by Mohammad Mahmudul Hasan, Deputy Chief Information Officer of the ministry, on Friday, December 5.

According to the circular, it has been observed with deep concern that medical technologists and pharmacists at government hospitals and health centres have been carrying out various programmes, including work abstention, over the past several days to press their demand for implementation of the 10th grade. This has disrupted emergency health services, causing immense suffering and hardship for the general public. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare expressed regret to service recipients for the inconvenience caused by the disruption of essential healthcare services.

Regarding the demands of the technologists and pharmacists, the relevant ministries have taken multiple steps. The Directorate General of Health Services and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare have completed all necessary procedures positively and informed all concerned about the long-standing demand for the 10th grade. The Ministry of Public Administration has also taken a favourable stance and is working sincerely toward resolving the matter. Since this is an issue that has persisted for years, the government must be given reasonable time to settle it.

Representatives of the protestors were briefed on the progress during a meeting with the Secretary. However, despite positive progress toward a solution, they continued their work abstention under the pretext of pressing their demands, effectively holding patients hostage—an act the ministry says is unbecoming of those engaged in the noble profession of healthcare.

Given that all relevant government bodies are working positively and proactively, the circular urges protestors to abandon programmes that deprive patients of essential services. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has requested all medical technologists, pharmacists, and concerned individuals to resume their duties immediately. Otherwise, the ministry has warned that legal action may be taken against such anti-public-interest activities that disrupt essential services.

DBTech/PR/MUM/OR