Barguna General Hospital, the district’s main government-run healthcare facility serving nearly 12 lakh people, has long been grappling with an acute shortage of doctors. Only 15 doctors are currently posted at the 250-bed hospital against 81 sanctioned posts, according to hospital sources. Of the 55 posts for medical officers, 47 are vacant, while only two doctors are working against 17 sanctioned posts for consultants and specialist physicians. Harun Ar Rashid Hawladar, vice-president of Barguna District Health Rights Forum, called for the prompt appointment of doctors to the vacant posts. Barguna Civil Surgeon Dr Abu Fattah said, “We send reports to the health ministry every month seeking the immediate posting of doctors to the vacant positions.”