Supporting staff and their families through vulnerable times

Sohel Sobhan Chowdhury availed his health insurance benefits last year when he underwent a critical medical surgery. Sohel is the assistant general manager of the Leadership Academy, under Human Resource and Learning Division at BRAC.

I required two coronary stent placements in my arteries last year. The surgery, hospital stay and doctor’s visits were emotionally and physically gruelling. The mounting expenses of the life-saving medical care I was receiving presented unparalleled stress.

As a BRAC employee, I was covered by a health insurance scheme by default, and was eligible to avail the benefit during that pressing hour. This health insurance covered a significant portion of my expenses, including my cabin fees, medicine, surgical charges, consultation fees, medical check-ups and ambulance fare. Although I stayed in the hospital for three days, it was reassuring to know that my insurance would have covered up to 30 days of hospital stay, and these benefits could still be availed if I chose to seek treatment abroad. I am grateful to know that my spouse and children also fall under this scheme, and I can avail medical support for them if necessary.

This benefit was a source of comfort and security during that difficult time. It is a known fact that when you are a part of the BRAC family, it looks out for you. Speaking from experience, it sure did for me.

BRAC prioritises good health and wellbeing of its staff body through timely support during their most vulnerable times. Every BRAC staff in Bangladesh can avail the benefits of health insurance. Each staff member is able to claim up to BDT 100,000 a year for hospital expenses for themselves, spouse and unmarried dependents up to the age of 25. We hold frequent sessions on crucial health concerns with medical professionals for our staff.