North South University

Department of Public Health

Title: Strategic Plan to Reduce Maternal and Childhood Mortality in

Submitted To:
Dr. Shomik Maruf
Lecturer
Department of Public Health, NSU

Submitted By:
Abu Rahat
ID:2231625630

Word Count: 785 words without references.

Submission Date: 5th November 2023.

Introduction:

Bangladesh has seen improvements in public health, yet maternal and child mortality remains

a pressing concern. The strategic approach laid out in this document is a data-informed and

internationally aligned proposal that aims to address these health challenges through a series

of concerted actions.

Abstract:

This strategic plan presents an ambitious five-year roadmap to combat the high rates of

maternal and childhood mortality in Bangladesh. It encompasses a thorough analysis of the

present scenario, highlights the severe impact of these high mortality rates, and offers a

detailed approach with targeted objectives to initiate a significant turnaround in the health

sector.

Maternal and new-born health Scenario:

Maternal and childhood mortality rates in Bangladesh are alarmingly high, with a marked

discrepancy between urban and rural healthcare access. Over the past decade, although there

has been a decline in these figures, the rates are still far from the Sustainable Development

Goals set by the United Nations. The disparities are more pronounced in rural areas where

healthcare infrastructure is often inadequate.

The Impact of Maternal and Childhood Mortality:

High maternal and childhood mortality rates carry devastating consequences for the socio-

economic structure of Bangladesh. The loss of life among mothers and children not only

causes emotional distress but also leads to a decrease in workforce participation, impacts the

upbringing and education of the next generation, and hinders economic growth.
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Strategic Objectives:

The plan is underpinned by two main objectives: reducing maternal mortality to fewer than

70 per 100,000 live births and lowering under-five mortality to no more than 25 per 1,000

live births. Achieving these targets will require a multi-dimensional approach and the

cooperation of various stakeholders.

Strategic Approach:

The healthcare infrastructure in rural regions is to be significantly upgraded to ensure that

essential obstetric and neonatal care is within reach of every expectant mother and newborn.

Simultaneously, the healthcare system must be bolstered with a surge in qualified healthcare

providers, particularly in the underserved areas where the shortage is most acute.

Simultaneously, a national initiative on education and awareness is vital. This initiative will

see the integration of maternal and child health education into the national curriculum,

coupled with mass media campaigns to inform the public about crucial health practices,

including family planning, nutrition, and preventative care.

Addressing nutrition and sanitation, the strategy involves the implementation of programs

that ensure communities have access to nutritious food, with an emphasis on the importance

of breastfeeding. Investments in clean water and sanitation infrastructure are imperative to

prevent diseases that can be particularly fatal for mothers and children.
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Figure 1:Inequalities in access to water, sanitation, and hygiene between the Bengali

population and minority ethnic groups in Bangladesh.

Policy and financial measures are also key components of this strategic plan. A significant

increase in the national healthcare budget is recommended, with specific funds earmarked for

maternal and child health services. Additionally, healthcare facilities that demonstrate

measurable improvements in reducing mortality rates will receive financial incentives,

encouraging a results-oriented approach to healthcare delivery. The government plans to

allocate Tk38,052 crore for the health sector in FY24, which is 3.23% higher than the last

fiscal year's initial allocation of Tk36,863 crore. In the revised FY23 budget, Tk29,749 crore

was allocated for that sector.

A robust framework for monitoring and evaluation is essential for the success of this strategic

plan. A comprehensive data collection and reporting system must be established to track

progress against the health indicators. Regular independent reviews will ensure that the

programs are effective and will inform necessary adjustments to strategies.

Partnerships and collaborations form the backbone of this strategic framework. By engaging

with international organizations, NGOs, and the private sector, Bangladesh can leverage

additional expertise, funding, and innovation to enhance its healthcare services.

Figure 2: Number of sanctioned posts for officers on special duties.

Figure 3: Maternal health care in Bangladesh, 1991–2004.

Implementation Timeline:

Year 1: Infrastructure and policy groundwork, educational campaign initiations.

Years 2-3: Expansion of healthcare services, training of health workers, nutrition and

sanitation program rollouts.

Years 4-5: Intensive community outreach, outcome evaluations, and strategic

refinements.

The first year is foundational, focusing on upgrading infrastructure and initiating policy

reforms. In the second and third years, the plan will scale up healthcare services, enhance the

training of healthcare providers, and begin nutrition and sanitation programs. In the final two

years, efforts will be intensified based on the results of interim evaluations, with a focus on

sustainability and expanding successful interventions.

Conclusion:

This strategic plan is an appeal as much as a blueprint for action, requiring a united front

from government authorities, healthcare practitioners, community members, and international

health agencies. It represents a commitment to the health and well-being of Bangladesh’s

mothers and children and an investment in the nation’s future.

References
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/

349028199_Human_Resource_for_Health_in_Bangladesh_Production_and_Distribution_of_

Doctors_in_the_Government_Health_Sector

https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Maternal-health-care-in-Bangladesh-1991-

2004_fig1_6079248

https://data.unicef.org/wp-content/uploads/country_profiles/Bangladesh/country

%20profile_BGD.pdf

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Economic_and_Demographic_Factors_on_Under-Five_Child_Mortality_in_Bangladesh

https://www.unicef.org/bangladesh/en/press-releases/billions-people-will-lack-access-safe-

water-sanitation-and-hygiene-2030-unless#:~:text=In%202020%2C%20around

%201%20in,lack%20safely%20managed%20sanitation%20facilities.

https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/article/PIIS2214-109X%2822%2900232-7/fulltext

https://www.phd-bd.com/our-partnres

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