Somoy journal correspondent:
The Society of Family Medicine, Bangladesh (SFMB), in partnership with UNICO Hospital PLC, successfully concluded a dynamic four-day event marking World Family Doctor Day (WFDD) 2026. Held from May 19 to 23 under the timely theme "Compassionate Care in a Digital World" the celebration brought together family physicians, public health leaders, young doctors, and media professionals to champion the vital role of family medicine in Bangladesh’s healthcare system.
The multi-day initiative aimed to bridge the gap between rapid technological advancement and patient-centric healthcare, while actively raising public awareness about preventive medicine.
Colorful Awareness Rally Kicks Off Celebrations The festivities commenced on Tuesday, May 19, at the UNICO Hospital premises with a vibrant Public Awareness Programme. The morning kicked off with a welcome reception and networking session, followed by a colorful Awareness Rally.
Participants marched across the hospital grounds carrying banners and chanting slogans that promoted family medicine and preventive healthcare. The day concluded with a ceremonial cake cutting, group photography, and an interactive session with the media.
Scientific Seminar Tackles the Digital Evolution of Healthcare
The core professional and academic segment took place on Saturday, May 23, at the UNICO Hospital Conference Hall, drawing notable health experts and economists.
The Inaugural Session
The seminar opened with a welcome address by Brigadier General (Retd.) Dr. Sharif Ahmed, Chief of Medical Services (CMS) of UNICO Hospital PLC. Attendees also viewed a special video message from Dr. S. M. Ziauddin Hyder, Special Assistant on Health Affairs to the Honourable Prime Minister of Bangladesh, who highly commended the nation's family physicians for their dedicated service.
Representing the SFMB, Senior Vice President Dr. Sayedul Islam addressed the audience, alongside remarks from distinguished guest speakers Professor Dr. Syed Abdul Hamid (Institute of Health Economics, University of Dhaka) and Professor Dr. Md. Mostak Ahmed (Former Dean, Faculty of Medicine, University of Dhaka).
Ms. Ardra Kurien, CEO of UNICO Hospital PLC, reaffirmed the institution's dedication to primary care, stating:
"UNICO Hospital is proud to host this historic event. Family Medicine is the foundation of a strong healthcare system. We are committed to supporting family physicians and primary healthcare in Bangladesh."
Launching Adult Vaccination: 'Not Just for Children'
A major highlight of the day was the formal launch of an Adult Vaccination Campaign, driving home the message that immunization is a lifelong necessity. The campaign targets the prevention of influenza, pneumonia, hepatitis, HPV, and other vaccine-preventable diseases in adults. Following the launch, guests participated in a guided tour of UNICO Hospital’s specialized facilities.
Exploring AI and Telemedicine Without Losing the 'Human Touch'
The subsequent scientific session zeroed in on the sub-theme, "Compassionate Care in the Age of Digital Health," featuring three critical presentations:
The Evolving Role of Family Physicians: Dr. Lt Col (Retd) Md. Kabir Ahmed Khan (President, SFMB) delivered the keynote presentation, emphasizing how doctors must anchor themselves in empathy even as tools change.
From Online to On-Trust: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohammad Osman Gani presented a deep dive into the trust dynamics of modern Telemedicine.
AI & Digital Tools: Asst. Prof. Dr. Saleh Ahmed (Holy Family Hospital) explored practical ways to utilize AI and digital tech without losing human connection.
Following a lively Q&A session moderated by the Scientific Committee and a technical presentation by ACME Laboratories Ltd., the seminar concluded with the distribution of crests and certificates.
A Month-Long Commitment to Community Health
The celebrations are not limited to the seminar. SFMB and UNICO Hospital have rolled out a comprehensive, month-long healthcare action plan for May 2026, which includes:
Free Outreach Health Camps: Direct medical support delivered to underserved communities on May 20 and 21.
Corporate Health Clinics: Promoting the philosophy of "Healthy Employee = Productive Organization" through regular corporate screenings to mitigate long-term healthcare costs.
Ongoing Adult Immunization: Continued scaling of the newly launched adult vaccination drive.
Reflecting on the success of the event, Dr. Lt Col (Retd) Md. Kabir Ahmed Khan, President of SFMB, reminded the medical community of their core mission: "Technology is advancing rapidly, but compassion is the soul of medicine. This year's theme reminds us that family physicians must embrace digital tools without losing the human touch. Our goal is to see a trained family doctor for every family in Bangladesh."
Somoyjournal/mi
