Bangladesh is making significant strides toward eliminating tuberculosis (TB), but experts say the path to a TB-free nation requires stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors. As part of ongoing efforts, stakeholders gathered in Dhaka recently to discuss how investments and partnerships could accelerate progress in the fight against TB.

The Country Learning Hub (CLH) for Immunisation Equity in Bangladesh has been a vital player in this ongoing battle, working towards reducing the number of zero-dose and under-immunised children across the country. CLH’s mission aligns closely with the nation’s broader health goals, particularly in ensuring equitable access to life-saving vaccines like BCG, DPT, and Pentavalent, which are critical in the fight against both TB and childhood diseases.

During a recent workshop organised by icddr,b and the National Tuberculosis Control Programme (NTP), experts emphasised the importance of engaging both public and private healthcare providers to increase TB detection and treatment coverage. The discussion highlighted the crucial role of private hospitals, diagnostic centers, and pharmaceutical companies in improving access to TB-related services and vaccines.

Dr. Shahriar Ahmed, deputy chief of party for USAID’s Alliance for Combating TB in Bangladesh, pointed out that while donor funding for TB control is decreasing, the private sector can fill the gap by offering both financial and technical support. This collaboration is especially important for increasing the availability of essential vaccines and diagnostics, making them more accessible in both urban and rural settings.

Dr. Md Mahafuzer Rahman Sarker, line director of TB-L & ASP at DGHS, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to reducing TB cases through public-private collaboration. He noted that private pharmaceutical companies have already contributed to reducing dependency on international suppliers by producing first-line TB medications locally. This model could be replicated for other essential vaccines, ensuring steady, affordable supply chains for immunisation programs.

According to Dr. Sayera Banu, senior scientist at icddr,b, collaboration among private hospitals, diagnostic centers, and pharmaceutical companies is critical for expanding immunisation services. In the past, private physicians have referred over 70% of TB cases, underscoring the importance of integrating TB care with routine immunisation services.

The workshop concluded with an actionable roadmap for improving TB care through these partnerships. Stakeholders agreed on the need for continued collaboration, community engagement, and investment in training private healthcare providers. As Bangladesh works towards its goal of a TB-free nation by 2035, strengthening public-private partnerships will be key to improving childhood immunisation coverage and reaching every child with essential vaccines.  

Reference:
Experts: Strengthening public-private partnerships necessary to end TB in Bangladesh [Internet]. Dhakatribune.com. [cited 2024 Dec 5]. Available from: https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/dhaka/363724/strengthening-public-private-partnerships-to-end