The government is committed to delivering the highest quality medical care to burn victims, according to Chief Advisor.
Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus stated that the interim government is earnest and resolute in its efforts to provide optimal treatment for the burn victims involved in the Milestone School and College plane crash.
This information was shared by the Chief Advisor’s Press Secretary, Shafiqul Alam, on Saturday night (July 26).
Additionally, the Chief Advisor highlighted the importance of counseling to support the mental health of the victims’ families and those injured in the incident, aiming to help them cope with the trauma. He instructed that collaborative efforts be made in this area by engaging relevant experts.
Earlier, Dr. Muhammad Yunus visited the National Burn Institute at approximately 9:15 pm, where he remained for about an hour, exiting around 10:20 pm.
Upon his arrival at the hospital, the Chief Advisor received a briefing about the incident from the institute’s director, Professor Mohammad Nasir Uddin, and inquired about the current status of the injured patients.
Professor Nasir reported that the patients currently receiving care at the hospital are being treated based on the recommendations of the Multidisciplinary Consultation Board. Their treatment has been assessed in accordance with international protocols, and guidance from both Bangladeshi and foreign medical experts is being utilized to ensure the highest standard of care.
He noted that, based on a collective evaluation, there are presently 4 patients in critical condition, 9 in severe condition, and 23 categorized as intermediate at the Burn Institute. However, this assessment may fluctuate over time depending on the patients’ conditions.
When the Chief Advisor inquired about the need for any equipment, tools, medications, or other resources for treatment, the Director confirmed that the government is currently providing all necessary items for the patients receiving care. Furthermore, the medical team from Singapore has brought along several pieces of equipment.
When the Chief Advisor inquired about the details of the casualties, Special Assistant Professor Md. Sayedur Rahman provided a comprehensive account of the incident, explaining that the burn victims were initially transported to nearby hospitals. There, the hospital staff administered first aid and subsequently transferred nearly all of them to the Burn Institute and CMH.
Following the incident, the ministry promptly requested the director of the Burn Institute to prepare for incoming patients. All healthcare personnel, including doctors and nurses, were on standby and successfully delivered swift medical assistance to approximately 30 burn victims who arrived at the emergency department simultaneously.
He added that the quick transfer of patients to various hospitals after receiving initial treatment in around 10 facilities led to some initial confusion regarding the count of deceased and injured individuals. Furthermore, there were several remains that required DNA profiling for identification, which took additional time. The shortage of ambulances became evident during the patient transfers. This incident highlighted the shortcomings in the country’s emergency healthcare system.
The Chief Advisor promptly requested a detailed proposal outlining necessary actions to address these issues, assuring that measures would be implemented soon.
Additionally, the Chief Advisor directed the Director to ensure the well-being of the relatives of the burn victims during their hospital stay. He emphasized the commitment to providing the highest quality of care to the patients.
It is important to acknowledge that the Chief Advisor expressed heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all individuals, including doctors and nurses, involved in the treatment of patients across various hospitals. He also extended gratitude to international supporters who have stood by Bangladesh during this challenging time. Health Advisor Nurjahan Begum accompanied the Chief Advisor during the visit to the hospital.
