April 2025 | ⏳ Calculating reading time... | BanglaMindscape.com
A recent decision by the interim government has sparked public debate: 31 injured protesters are being sent to Pakistan for medical treatment.
At first, the headlines raised eyebrows—especially since Bangladesh ranks higher than Pakistan in the Global Health Security (GHS) Index. So the natural question arises:
Why send patients to a lower-ranked country for treatment?
But here’s where context changes the conversation.
What the Global Health Security Index Actually Says
According to the 2023 GHS Index:
- Bangladesh ranks 95th among 195 countries
- Pakistan ranks 130th
- In South Asia, Bangladesh is 4th, and Pakistan is 8th
These rankings reflect overall preparedness and healthcare capacity—but don’t tell the full story when it comes to specialized treatment.
The Specific Case: Injuries from Mine Explosions
During the July-August student-led mass uprising, many protesters sustained serious injuries—including from mine explosions.
According to Health Adviser Noorjahan Begum, Pakistan has specialized hospitals equipped to treat mine-related injuries, which may not be available or sufficiently advanced in Bangladesh.
“Pakistan has specialised hospitals for treating those injured by mine explosions.”
— The Business Standard
Others are also being sent to Türkiye, Bangkok, and Singapore, showing the decisions are based on treatment needs, not national rankings.
Specialization vs. Generalized Rankings: A Reality Check
This case highlights a deeper truth:
General healthcare rankings don’t always reflect specific capabilities.
Just like a top-ranked university may not have the best department for every subject, a higher-ranked country in health security may still lack niche expertise in trauma, mine injury, or advanced neuro care.
BanglaMindscape’s Perspective: Move Beyond Pride or Panic
We believe it’s time for critical thinking over emotional reaction. Yes, we must celebrate Bangladesh’s healthcare progress, but also acknowledge our limitations—especially when lives are at stake.
Instead of asking “Why Pakistan?”, perhaps we should ask:
- “What can we do to strengthen our own specialized trauma care?”
- “How do we ensure future patients don’t need to go elsewhere?”
Should we invest more in specialized trauma and war-related injury units in Bangladesh?
Is it fair to criticize decisions made out of medical necessity?
We invite you to reflect, not just react. Because meaningful change begins with meaningful questions.