Bangladesh Medical Insurance News

Under the Bangladeshi constitution all citizens are entitled to receive basic healthcare services. Since 1949 the Bangladeshi government has been pursing a policy that aims to make this goal a reality, however the results are often less impressive than the idea. The basic healthcare infrastructure throughout Bangladesh remains poor. Medical facilities are mainly limited to the major cities with almost no provision of healthcare services found in the countryside.

In addition to the lack of basic medical facilities throughout the country, there is a major concern in Bangladesh regarding communicable diseases. Due to the country's location and the prevalence of severe floods during the monsoon season, there are yearly outbreaks of a number of major diseases, including typhoid, dengue fever, malaria, and others. This is a serious problem and accounts for many deaths annually. The problem of flooding has also been linked to the high infant mortality rates throughout the country and despite the high level of fertility throughout Bangladesh, approximately 125 infants will die per every 1000 births.

There is positive forward movement however, as the Bangladeshi government realizes that there are a myriad of serious issues facing its healthcare policy. One of the biggest reforms being mounted is with regards to the standard of drinking water in the country. In an effort to cut down on the levels of disease transmitted by poor drinking water the Bangladeshi government has instituted a program to see all water systems monitored for contaminants. This program is not yet in effect, but does show that the government is aware of some of the major healthcare issues and is taking measures to tackle the problem.

Despite any progress made, however, the provision of healthcare in the country is still in a state that is much lower than expected. Most hospitals and clinics will not be able to provide any care outside of emergency treatment. In addition to this many Bangladeshi medical facilities will require a cash payment prior to treatment, and in some cases this has been requested even where an individual has health insurance. In serious situations patients are typically evacuated from the country to a nearby center of medical excellence, typically to India or Thailand. These evacuations can be expensive, and without adequate insurance coverage can place a burden on an individual's financial situation.

Due to the inadequate nature of the country's healthcare services it is advised that any foreign nationals in the country ensure that they take measures to prevent sickness and disease. Avoid swimming in public waterways and the ocean, as these may be contaminated by human waste. Always ensure that you are drinking water from a clean source. This comes in addition to carrying some form of anti-diarrhea medication at all times. In the event that you suffer from diarrhea for more than 72 hours, you should consult a medical authority.

We can provide comprehensive international health insurance plans to foreign nationals living in Bangladesh, and Bangladeshi nationals living abroad. Plans that we can offer will typically be attached to a number of coverage benefits which can include maternity and dental protection, out-patient treatment, specialist consultations, alternative therapies, complimentary medicine and emergency evacuation coverage. Expatriate health insurance policies are typically globally portable and guaranteed renewable for life, giving you the assurance that no matter what happens, anywhere in the world, you will have the coverage that you deserve.

For more information about Bangladesh, the international health insurance plans that we can offer there, or to receive a free quote, please contact one of our expert advisers today.

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