Abstract
Background: Bangladesh has attained substantial progress in healthcare services and population health. This study examines the knowledge and awareness about the linkage between human rights and healthcare among patients, healthcare providers and members of civil society in Bangladesh. Methods: A questionnaire was distributed between May and August 2018 to 483 respondents among patients (health service users), providers, and other groups (includes members of civil society, politicians, social and religious elites, media personnel, and rights-based groups) in a regional area in Bangladesh. Of these participants, 58% were from urban areas and 42% from rural areas. As many as 78% were male and 22% female. A survey method and descriptive data analysis was performed to complete the study. Results: Participants in the study were aware and had knowledge about the linkage between human rights and health service provision, but they claimed the right to health has not been implemented in practice. The non-implementation of the right to healthcare is suggestive of a lack of political will, which negatively contributes to the social well-being of the larger population. It has undesirable effects on the development of the health system and the population’s health status. This reflects poor monitoring and performance of public institutions which has ramifications on the wider social parameters of social justice, equity, democratic values, transparency, and accountability. Conclusion: The development of population health is rooted in maintaining and promoting the right to healthcare. The ethical principle of human rights lies in the notions of human dignity, equity, equality, and social justice. The government should adhere to these values at societal levels and engage multiple stakeholders to promote the right to health for the benefit of a wider population.
The Lancet–O’Neill Institute/Georgetown University Commission on Global Health and Law: The Power of Law to Advance the Right to Health