Dr. Farhana Rizwan has been appointed as Member Secretary of the National Expert Committee on Price List Update of Essential Medicines by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Bangladesh
Dr. Farhana Rizwan, Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmacy at East West University, has been appointed as the member secretary of the newly formed National Expert Committee by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. This committee is responsible for updating the price list of essential medicines in Bangladesh. By providing recommendations, it aims to develop and implement a list of essential medications that prioritize national health and well-being, ensuring that all citizens have access to necessary treatments. Notably, Dr. Rizwan is the only pharmacist representing both private and public universities in the committee, marking a significant step in including pharmacists at the national level.
Dr. Rizwan began her teaching career in 2004 and has over 20 years of experience in academia and research, with expertise in clinical pharmacy, pharmacology and public health. She is actively involved in research of healthcare system in Bangladesh. Recently, she received a prestigious publication award from East West University for her impactful article, “Burnout Risks in Bangladeshi Physicians: A Multicenter, Cross-Sectional Study.” This significant research involved interviewing 1,434 physicians from 62 hospitals across Bangladesh, highlighting a critical issue affecting the medical community.
Throughout her career, Dr. Rizwan has authored over 50 research articles published in conference proceedings and peer-reviewed national and international journals. She has also participated in national and international conferences and workshops, where she presented her research work. Currently, she is focused on investigating the presence of artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and heavy metals in food and cosmetic products available in the Bangladeshi market. Her upcoming article sheds light on critical age-related health issues and explores the daily lifestyles of older adults in Bangladesh, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and support for this vital segment of society. She has received research grants from several organizations, including the Center for Research and Training (CRT) at East West University, Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd. & Nuvista Pharmaceuticals Ltd., and she has research collaboration with BRiCM. .
