Bahrain is rolling out healthcare reforms, including stronger financial controls, more inspection campaigns and major upgrades to infrastructure.
Health Minister Dr Jalila Al Sayyed told Parliament’s financial and economic affairs committee that the ministry had already implemented around 90 per cent of the recommendations made in the National Audit Report last year, describing the reform process as ‘ongoing and comprehensive’.
“We take every observation seriously,” she told the committee. “Our priority is to strengthen governance, enhance efficiency and ensure the highest standards of healthcare delivery for citizens and residents.”
The minister acknowledged that the Government Hospitals had faced budgetary pressures, particularly in medication expenses.
“Overspending occurred mainly in drug procurement, the opening of new health centres, overseas treatment cases and scholarships for doctors sent abroad for specialised training,” she said. “We are investing in people and services, and that inevitably comes with costs.”
She explained that several services have been transferred to the Government Hospitals, further increasing expenditure, but stressed that efforts are being made to remain within the approved budget wherever possible.
Dr Al Sayyed revealed that all activities subject to the ministry’s oversight had been clearly identified, with co-ordination strengthened with the Industry and Commerce Ministry to ensure no commercial activity can operate without securing the required health licence.
“Public health is non-negotiable,” she said. “No establishment is permitted to operate without meeting all regulatory requirements. Legal action is taken against violators operating without licences.”
An automated licensing system has now been programmed so that no certificate can be issued unless all conditions are fulfilled. Specialists have also been instructed to adhere strictly to specified timelines, supported by weekly monitoring reports to prevent delays.
Inspection activity has doubled following the approval of a unified annual inspection plan.
The minister said work is underway to review licensing service fee in line with the Unified Financial Manual, with amendments being prepared to update existing ministerial decisions and regulate fee collection.
On drug inventory management, she confirmed that an independent committee had been formed to enhance stock control, reconciliation procedures and oversight mechanisms.
Budget has been allocated to restore the Ibn Al-Nafees building in co-ordination with the Works Ministry, which will increase capacity once operational. A comprehensive maintenance plan for the psychiatric hospital and an expansion of the private pharmacy are also in progress.
Addressing addiction treatment services, Dr Al Sayyed noted that female cases remain limited – averaging fewer than seven annually – and are being managed safely within existing facilities. However, a national rehabilitation centre is being developed with separate wings for men and women.
“Our goal is clear,” she said. “We are building a stronger, safer and more responsive healthcare system, one that meets today’s needs and prepares for tomorrow’s challenges.”
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