Bangladesh operates a pluralistic healthcare system encompassing public, private, and NGO-led facilities. The public health infrastructure is tiered, providing foundational care through Upazila Health Complexes in rural areas and larger medical college hospitals in cities. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play a uniquely large role in grassroots health education, maternal care, and immunization.
**Notable Institutions:** * **Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH):** The largest public hospital in the country, providing critical care and serving as a major teaching hospital. * **Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU):** The premier postgraduate medical institution. * **icddr,b (International Center for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh):** Globally renowned for its pioneering research and treatment of diarrheal diseases and the development of Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS). * **Private Hospitals:** Facilities like Square Hospital, Evercare Hospital, and United Hospital in Dhaka offer advanced, specialized medical care. * **Pharmacies:** Retail pharmacies like Lazz Pharma operate widely, often providing 24-hour service in major cities.