BRAC launches '360-Degree' model to combat non-communicable diseases
It especially focuses on remote and underserved areas where government health services often struggle to reach
BRAC, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Medtronic LABS, has launched the healthcare model "360-Degree NCD Care Initiative" to tackle Bangladesh's growing non-communicable disease (NCD) crisis.
NCDs account for 70% of all deaths in the country, while 68% of medical expenses are paid out-of-pocket, causing significant financial hardship for many families, said a press release.
Unveiled at the BRAC Centre in Dhaka, the model emphasises community-based, long-term preventive care for chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and respiratory illnesses.
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It especially focuses on remote and underserved areas where government health services often struggle to reach.
This comprehensive initiative integrates community-level diagnosis, telemedicine support, referral pathways, and digital health monitoring via the SPICE platform.
The platform is linked to the government's DHIS2 database, allowing real-time coordination and data sharing between healthcare providers. Pilots conducted across five upazilas demonstrated promising results, with 78% of hypertensive patients and 41% of diabetic patients successfully managing their conditions.
Over 4,500 patients have received ongoing treatment under the model, which now operates across 43 upazilas in seven districts, with plans for further expansion.
Asif Saleh, executive director of BRAC, described the initiative as a scalable, people-centered public-private partnership that prioritises prevention and community engagement to reduce the NCD burden.
Dr Omar Ishrak, former CEO and chairman of Medtronic, emphasised the importance of identifying and addressing systemic healthcare barriers to improve outcomes and reduce costs through value-based care.
Md Saidur Rahman, secretary of the Directorate General of Health Services, highlighted the vital role of data-driven assessments in identifying service gaps, particularly in remote regions.
The initiative aims to serve as a national blueprint for decentralized, accountable health system reform, reducing preventable deaths and easing the financial burden of NCDs through scalable, community-driven care across Bangladesh
Other notable speakers included Dr Abu Muhammad Zakir, who called for sustainable investment and effective government-NGO collaboration; Dr Md Abu Hena, who warned of widespread hypertension and the growing NCD death toll; KAM Morshed, who stressed the need for community engagement, technology, and policy support; Dr Imran Chowdhury, who outlined the model's community-focused approach; and Ruchika Singhal of Medtronic LABS, who highlighted the SPICE platform's role in enabling inclusive, real-time healthcare.
