Dhaka, Jun 01 (V7N) – All medical services at the National Institute of Ophthalmology and Hospital (NIOH) in the capital have been suspended temporarily due to ongoing security concerns, according to an official press release from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issued on Saturday (May 31).

The announcement, signed by Mohammad Shahadat Hossain, Senior Information Officer of the Ministry, cited an atmosphere of fear among healthcare providers following an unsettling incident on May 29.

Key Points from the Statement:

  • A delegation from the Ministry has visited the NIOH to engage in discussions with those injured in the July coup and to ensure the safety of healthcare workers, including specialist doctors.

  • The Ministry noted that only patients injured in the July coup are currently admitted at the hospital and are being provided with special rations as a mark of respect.

  • Unfortunately, regular eye patients, many of whom travel from distant regions of the country, are being turned away without treatment, causing widespread concern.

  • “We are currently expecting a positive outcome of the discussions. Once a favorable environment for medical services is ensured, the highest measures will be taken to resume all hospital services,” said Shahadat Hossain in the press release.

The Ministry expressed regret and sympathy for the suffering of general patients and advised them to seek treatment at the nearest eye departments in other hospitals until the situation improves.

Medical services at the NIOH will remain suspended until the safety of staff and stability within the hospital are fully restored.

END/MSS/AJ