A transformative shift in Bangladesh’s healthcare landscape began Tuesday with a 3-day training workshop on Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM) at the Super Specialised Hospital of Bangladesh Medical University.
Organised by the Institutional Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of Bangladesh Medical University (BMU), the event was inaugurated by Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Md Shahinul Alam, marking a bold step toward modernising medical practice.
The workshop, running through Thursday, brings together 20 members from BMU’s Departmental Quality Assurance Committees, including Phytomaternal Medicine, Cardiology, Radiology and Imaging, and Paediatric Nephrology.
Key speakers included IQAC Director Professor Dr Nurun Nahar Khanam and former Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Chairman Professor Dr Md Mozammel Haque, who delivered the keynote address. Attendees featured University Treasurer Professor Dr Nahrin Akhtar, along with committee presidents Professors Dr Tabassum Parveen, Dr Syeda Saeeda, Dr Syeda Nazli Mostafa, and Dr Afroza Begum. Moderated by IQAC Additional Directors Dr Deen Mujahid Md Faruk Osmani and Dr Tariq Reza Ali, the session set a collaborative tone.
Vice Chancellor Shahinul Alam emphasized that in today’s era of advanced medical science and technology, there is no room to disregard evidence-based medicine. Widespread adoption of evidence-based treatment can bring transformative changes to healthcare, safeguarding the interests of both patients and the public
He described evidence-based medicine as a "testimony of truth," highlighting that when doctors follow established guidelines and base their prescriptions and advice on solid evidence, patients receive proper care and the medical profession enhances its credibility in society.
Shahinul further noted that evidence-based medicine plays a crucial role in expanding medical knowledge, improving education, competing globally, and ultimately ensuring better outcomes for patients while reducing their suffering.
The workshop featured Professor Dr Mozammel Haque’s deep dive into critically appraising evidence and statistics, while Professor Dr Nurun Nahar Khanam traced EBM’s history, detailing its principles of blending scientific evidence, physician expertise, and patient values.
This approach, she noted, enhances treatment safety, effectiveness, and patient involvement in decision-making.
EBM, a cornerstone of modern healthcare, promises to reshape Bangladesh’s medical landscape by ensuring evidence-driven care. As the workshop unfolds, experts like Dr. Afroza Begum see it as a beacon for future physicians. “This training could save lives and build a healthier nation,” she said, reflecting the optimism surrounding this initiative.