Islamia Eye Hospital: Redefining affordable healthcare in Bangladesh

Bangladesh’s healthcare system is often marred by mismanagement and corruption, with public hospitals facing overcrowding and insufficient care, while private institutions prioritising profit over patients. 

Amid this bleak landscape, Ispahani Islamia Eye Hospital in Dhaka shines as a remarkable exception, offering quality and affordable eye care that sets a benchmark for others.

A Non-Profit Model for All

Established in 1960, Ispahani Islamia Eye Hospital is Bangladesh’s largest specialised eye care institution. 

As a non-profit entity, it caters to over 3,500 patients daily, employing a cross-subsidisation model to ensure accessibility for all.

Explaining the hospital’s unique approach, Director Gazi Nazrul Islam said, "We charge Tk 50 in the general outpatient department for consultations, diagnostics, and prescriptions. For private services, the charge is Tk 1,000. The surplus from private services subsidises treatments for those in need. This allows us to maintain affordability without compromising on quality."

Specialised treatments, such as retinal or corneal procedures, cost Tk 200, covering all necessary investigations and follow-ups, with no hidden charges.

Patients’ Voices

Patients from diverse backgrounds laud the hospital’s services. 

Jesmin Arju, from Uttara, who underwent surgery for a detached retina, described her experience as transformative, "The service here is exceptional. I’ve visited several hospitals, but none have matched the care I’ve received here. The staff, nurses, and doctors are all professional and compassionate."

Similarly, Zibon Mia, who travelled from Brahmanbaria for cataract surgery, shared, "The doctor was meticulous, and the nurses were very attentive. I feel truly cared for."

Khurshida Begum, a patient with retinal complications, highlighted the staff’s dedication, "Their behaviour and sincerity are unparalleled. It’s rare to find such commitment in our healthcare system."

Maintaining High Standards

The hospital’s success lies in its robust infrastructure and highly trained workforce. 

It employs 135 doctors, 200 optometrists, and over 1,250 staff members, ensuring smooth operations and exceptional patient care. Treatments adhere to Japanese Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), guaranteeing precision and safety.

Md Mofizul Islam, Associate Director of Nursing Management & Quality Assurance, explained the hospital’s quality control practices, "We conduct regular clinical audits and quarterly reviews to evaluate and improve our services. This continuous learning process involves doctors, nurses, and staff, ensuring every department maintains high standards."

Affordable Inpatient Services

The hospital’s inpatient services are equally accessible, with a daily bed charge of Tk 600, inclusive of three meals. Nurse Shrabani Akter shared, "We strive to provide holistic care. For families with children, we even offer free milk. Every day, we learn from new patients and work to enhance our services.

A Model for Change

In a healthcare sector often criticised for corruption, unethical practices, and patient harassment, Ispahani Islamia Eye Hospital stands out for its unwavering focus on patient welfare. Its cross-subsidisation model, coupled with stringent quality measures and affordable services, sets a standard for other institutions to follow.

By prioritising affordability, quality, and ethical practices, the hospital offers a glimmer of hope for a more equitable healthcare system in Bangladesh.