Dhaka, 23 November 2025 - WHO convened a high-level technical consultation to present a draft of the Bangladesh Universal Health Coverage Roadmap 2026-2035.
Bangladesh has made remarkable progress in public health over the past five decades; with increase in life expectancy, sharp decrease in under-five mortality, and childhood immunization that has reached near-universal coverage. However, it still faces significant challenges. With a Universal Health Coverage service coverage index that stands at just 54 out of 100, this has resulted, in 2025, with 41.7% of the population that have experienced financial hardship due to out-of-pocket health expenditure. This amounts to about 70 million people.
It is against this backdrop, that WHO and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW) jointly developed the Bangladesh Universal Health Coverage Roadmap 2026-2035
Universal health coverage (UHC) means that all people and communities receive quality health services, when and where they need them, without suffering financial hardship. UHC is not only a health goal, but also a cornerstone for reducing poverty, promoting social equity, and driving sustainable national development.
The roadmap sets out a pathway for Bangladesh to move closer to UHC. It proposes a long-term strategy grounded in the three dimensions of population coverage, service coverage, and financial protection. It is characterized by universality, a gradual and progressive approach, a single pooled fund, a comprehensive benefit package, and strong governance and accountability with political commitment. If implemented, the roadmap has the potential to transform health outcomes, reduce out of pocket expenditures and strengthen the resilience of Bangladesh’s health system.
On 23 November, a technical consultation was organized by WHO and MOHFW, to bring together senior policymakers, high-level government officials, researchers, development partners, and health experts. The consultation served as a platform to present the draft, exchange lessons from other countries and gather insights and feedback from experts to shape Bangladesh’s next steps toward UHC.
Strengthening Primary Health Care: Lessons for Achieving Universal Health Coverage in Bangladesh
During the consultation, experiences on how other low- and middle-income countries successfully expanded coverage were presented. Their stories revealed some of the key challenges that may impact the achievement of UHC. These include inadequate PHC infrastructure, particularly in underserved areas, shortage of health workforce, medical supplies and diagnostics, and limited financial risk protection due to small fiscal space which leads to high out-of-pocket payment.
‘Health system readiness is the backbone of UHC; strong PHC, a capable health workforce, and access to essential medicines and diagnostics are its foundations’ highlighted by Dr Viroj Tangcharoensathien, international public health expert and panelist.
In Bangladesh, Primary Health Care is the foundation of universal health coverage, and as such needs to be strengthened in every aspect. Starting with a clear definition of PHC scope, services and referral pathways, to improving PHC workforce competences, service quality and facility readiness. And, as these improvements are implemented, equity should be the focus and guide the rollout by prioritizing underserved areas and vulnerable segments of population.
A major focus of the discussion was also placed on the importance of the progressive increase of health budget, especially in medicines, diagnostics, and the health workforce. Fiscal space expansion and efficient budget execution remain among the most crucial elements for UHC acceleration. “PHC should be free for all, beginning with those who are most vulnerable and marginalized”, remarked Mr. Md. Saidur Rahman, Secretary of MOHFW.
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Dr Prof. Dr Md. Sayedur Rahman, Honourable Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser (State Minister), MOHFW delivering his remarks
Photo: WHO / Roberta Tosques
UHC Roadmap: Political Engagement and Path Forward
The consultation represented a significant milestone. Overall, participants expressed a strong agreement that the draft is strategic, comprehensive and timely. Feedback and insights gathered will be incorporated into the UHC Roadmap to make sure it is practical and relevant to Bangladesh’s context. Participants also agreed on a set of next steps to move the process forward.
The roadmap will be linked to existing strategies, such as the Health Financing Strategy, Human Resources Strategy, and the Reform Commission Report. A Bangla version will be prepared to involve political leaders and support the inclusion of UHC commitments in their 2026 election manifestos. To build wide support across different parties, a Political Solidarity Event on UHC will be organized. Once finalized, the Roadmap will serve as a living guide for ongoing health sector reforms.
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Guests and participants of the consultation.
Photo: WHO / Roberta Tosques