Commitment to building world-class healthcare in the country

Commitment to building world-class healthcare in the country

Unico Hospital has been built on a new model in the country's health sector, combining technology, skilled physicians, and humane service. In an interview with Agamir Somoy, CEO Ardra Kurien discusses the hospital's future plans. The interview was taken by Kausar Ahmed.
gamir Somoy: As a new hospital, what was the biggest challenge in gaining patients' trust (in Bangladesh)?

Ardra Kurien: The biggest challenge was winning people's trust. People don't come just because of modern buildings or advanced technology; they want to see the quality of treatment, the sincerity of services, and transparency. From the very beginning, we have emphasized open communication with patients. Especially for ICU or complex cases, our multidisciplinary team explains every step to the patient's family members and answers all their questions. We want patients to feel not just treatment, but they need to feel respect and trust. Achieving this trust is our greatest goal.

Agamir Somoy: Why did Unico choose Bangladesh for investment in the healthcare sector?

Ardra Kurien: We were attracted by the skills of the doctors here, the demand for quality treatment, and the potential of the health sector. Unico Hospital was established through the initiative of Bangladeshi doctors and entrepreneurs. Rajagiri Hospital in Kerala, India, is providing technical and management support as a technical partner. Their expert team is working on hospital management, nursing, operation theaters, and ensuring service quality. However, the majority of doctors, nurses, and staff are Bangladeshi. Our goal is to combine foreign expertise with Bangladesh's skilled human resources to build international-standard healthcare.

Agamir Somoy: How is Unico balancing quality service with costs?

Ardra Kurien: Healthcare is expensive in all countries. However, we have tried to keep it within reach of the middle class. Unico operates as a mid-segment hospital.

We have taken several initiatives. One is the Bridge Fund. Through this, if a patient cannot pay the full bill, financial assistance is provided from this fund, which is formed through donations from hospital directors and well-wishers. The patient pays as much as they are able, and the remaining amount is covered by the fund. There are also special discount arrangements, where specific services and doctor fees are subsidized every Tuesday and Friday. Additionally, under Senior Citizen Care, there are special discounts and subsidies for those over 60 years of age.

Agamir Somoy: Does Unico offer any free services for underprivileged people?

Ardra Kurien: Absolutely, we do. We have been conducting community outreach activities since the very first month of the hospital's operation. We organize at least two medical camps every month, where general health check-ups are provided. In addition, we have launched a special healthcare program for rickshaw pullers. They can get their blood pressure and blood sugar tested for free and receive free consultations from a senior endocrinologist. They have been given a health record card, which allows for regular monthly follow-ups. More than 300 rickshaw pullers have already participated in one of these programs. Many of them learned for the first time that they have high blood pressure or diabetes.

Agamir Somoy: What is the minimum cost for a patient to receive treatment at Unico?

Ardra Kurien: That depends on the type of service they are seeking. However, we have priced our services in a way that makes treatment easily accessible to the middle class. We offer subsidized consultation fees on specific days. Additionally, many of our community healthcare services are provided completely free of charge.

Agamir Somoy: What are Unico's plans regarding the use of artificial intelligence, digital healthcare, and information technology in treatment?

Ardra Kurien: Unico has emphasized building a digital hospital from the very start. We are gradually strengthening our advanced hospital information systems, digital medical records, and patient management. In the future, we have plans to introduce AI-based technologies to assist doctors in decision-making, digital reporting, and more advanced telemedicine facilities. However, technology is never a substitute for doctors; rather, it will help them work more efficiently and accurately.

Agamir Somoy: Is there any special plan for patients returning from abroad?

Ardra Kurien: We do not have a separate unit specifically for expatriate patients. However, those who have received treatment in Singapore, Thailand, or other countries, or who have needed medical care while working abroad, can come here for follow-ups or complete treatment. Many Bangladeshi expatriates are currently receiving treatment at Unico. In fact, there is a patient working in Thailand who chose Unico for his surgery because he can get international-standard services here at a relatively lower cost.

Agamir Somoy: Where do you want to see Unico in the next five years?

Ardra Kurien: In the next five years, we want to see Unico as one of the most trusted and patient-centric hospitals in Bangladesh. We want to be known not just for modern technology, but for the quality of services, patients' (positive) experience, and humane treatment. At the same time, we have plans to further expand community healthcare, preventive medicine, and international-standard clinical services.

Agamir Somoy: Why should a patient choose Unico over other hospitals?

Ardra Kurien: Because we don't just treat diseases; we also take care of the patient. Our strengths are international experience, skilled Bangladeshi doctors, advanced technology, and humane service. We communicate transparently with the patient and their family, explain every step of the treatment, and give them the time they need.

Agamir Somoy: What would be your message for an ordinary patient?

Ardra Kurien: Do not wait for an illness to become complicated. Get regular health check-ups, stay aware of your health, and consult a doctor on time when needed. Health is the greatest wealth.

Source: https://www.agamirsomoy.com/en/bangladesh/health/x4blss3efibv