Evolving Health Indicators in Bangladesh: Key Drivers and Emerging Trends

Abstract

Over the past few decades, Bangladesh, a South Asian nation with a dense population, has made notable progress in improving its health statistics. This article investigates the trends in health indicators, health sector expenditure, and out-of-pocket health spending in Bangladesh from 2000 to 2022. Over the last two decades, maj or health indicators such as life expectancy, infant mortality rate, and maternal mortality rate have improved significantly, indicating development in the healthcare system. At the same time, healthcare spending has continually climbed, reflecting the government's dedication to healthcare funding. However, health expenditure as a proportion of GDP has fluctuated, highlighting the link between economic growth and healthcare investment. Despite increased public health spending, out-of-pocket healthcare expenses continue to be a major concern, with people bearing an increasing percentage of the cost. This study follows these changes to gain a thorough knowledge of how money allocation and health outcomes have changed in Bangladesh throughout this period.