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A government committee has recommended a minimum salary structure for entry-level doctors in private medical facilities, proposing they earn at least 90 percent of the basic salary of a government entry-level officer. This initiative aims to address long-standing issues of low and inconsistent wages within the private healthcare sector.

For doctors working full-time without a regular appointment, the committee suggested a consolidated monthly salary of Tk 35,000 in metropolitan areas, Tk 33,000 in other district towns, and Tk 30,000 in upazilas. Part-time and hourly-based doctors would be paid Tk 1,250 for a daytime shift and Tk 1,500 for a night shift, with one duty shift defined as eight hours. The recommendations also include separate structures for house rent, bonuses, and other allowances.

The seven-member committee, led by Prof Nazmul Hossain, submitted its proposals to the health secretary on Monday. Formed last month by the health ministry, the committee was tasked with developing a "reasonable, coordinated and dignified" salary structure following demonstrations by intern and postgraduate doctors demanding standardized pay. The committee also proposed that private facilities issue appointment letters, cap weekly working hours at 48, and grant all government holidays, with compensatory leave for work on public holidays. Six months of maternity leave was also recommended for regular female doctors with over a year of service.