Dhaka, Feb. 7 -- Bangladesh's flagship public telehealth service, Shastho Batayan 16263, which has served as a critical healthcare lifeline for millions, is facing an uncertain future due to prolonged funding delays and administrative bottlenecks, triggering concern among health experts, service providers and policymakers.

Launched under the e-Health action plan of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), the round-the-clock helpline enables citizens to receive free medical advice by dialling 16263. The service is currently operated by around 100 MBBS-qualified doctors and 25 health information officers working in shifts.

Despite its growing demand and expanding role in the national health system, no funds have been released f...