2 lakh RMG workers to get free health consultations

After successfully completing the first phase of this initiative- serving 150,000 RMG workers and slum dwellers of Dhaka and its surrounding areas with quality healthcare services, now the 2nd phase is being launched.

Under the 2nd phase, 200,000 RMG workers will be able to access Specialist doctor consultations with Dermatologists, Psychologists, gynaecologists, Medicine specialists and Paediatricians, completely free of charge as many times as they want. The medical facilities at the RMG factories will be equipped with all the necessary resources for availing specialist doctor consultations via video call directly from the Digital Hospital. RMG workers will also have the option to avail this service via the Digital Hospital app.

Furthermore, awareness and engagement sessions will be conducted on COVID-19 and RMG specific health problems with the doctors and medical workers. This is to enhance the knowledge and expertise of the factory medical staff so that they can provide better medical services in the future.

With over 4 million workers in the RMG industry, they are a crucial part of the total labour force of the country. A majority of these workers are women and mostly from impoverished backgrounds and thus, quality healthcare is still considered a luxury for them. As per a study by Oxfam Australia, around 72% of the RMG workers don't have enough financial capability to cater to their healthcare needs. Many of them also suffer from many chronic health issues such as migraine, back pain, etc., which go untreated due to lack of financial capabilities. Furthermore, the onslaught of the pandemic has also caused significant damage to many of their incomes. With women being the primary caregivers in most families, their health plays a crucial part in the well-being of their children and families as well. Thus, access to specialist doctors can play a huge role in ensuring the health of the RMG workers and contribute to maternal and child health of such a crucial segment of the population.

Andrew Smith, CCO of Digital Hospital says, "We believe through this initiative, we will be able to have a positive impact in the lives of many RMG workers, who are such a crucial part of the economy. Belonging to impoverished backgrounds and having access to quality healthcare services will significantly improve their and their families live at the same time. Especially for the female population who now have access to better healthcare knowledge regarding female hygiene, maternal health issues and awareness for healthy choices post-delivery. Also providing training to the medical staff of the RMG industries and capacity building will also ensure that in the long run they can provide better healthcare facilities to these workers and help them lead healthier lives."