A call for revised working hours during Ramadan for medics working in Bahrain’s health centres has been made by MPs.
It follows a letter by 200 medics from health centres asking MPs to push for a flexible shift-based system.
The proposal by five MPs led by Parliament’s second deputy speaker Ahmed Qarata has now been urgently referred to the Cabinet for review.
It suggests introducing two shifts instead of the current continuous daytime system, which runs from either 7am to 7pm on normal days or 8am to 7pm – amounting to up to 11 working hours in Ramadan.
Under the suggested change, health centres would operate on two shifts, allowing medics time to break their fast at Maghrib – around 5.35pm – and perform prayers without being on duty.
Previously, health centres operated in split shifts, opening in the morning and evening with a two-hour closure in between. However, many medics complained that the break was inconvenient and disruptive to both staff and patients. The current system was introduced to streamline services, but critics say it has created new challenges during Ramadan.
Mr Qarata said the letter reflected genuine concerns from medical professionals working long hours while fasting.
“Healthcare workers are on the frontlines serving patients throughout the holy month, and it is only fair that we consider arrangements that support them physically and spiritually,” he said.
“The current 11-hour stretch, particularly without a proper break during iftar, places considerable strain on doctors, nurses and support staff.”
He stressed that patient care would not be compromised under the proposed two-shift model.
“The goal is to strike a balance – maintaining uninterrupted healthcare services while ensuring that our medical teams are not overburdened during Ramadan,” he added.
Bahrain has 27 health centres across the kingdom, nine of which operate round-the-clock. The proposed changes would mainly affect those running extended daytime hours.
According to medics behind the request, the absence of a dedicated break at sunset means many staff are forced to break their fast hurriedly while attending to patients, or delay it altogether.
One medic involved in the request said the issue was not about reducing working hours, but about redistributing them.
“We understand the needs of patients, especially during Ramadan when cases can increase before iftar. But having a structured shift system would allow us to serve better and return refreshed,” the medic said.
Mr Qarata confirmed that the matter had been treated as urgent and forwarded to the Cabinet for consideration.
“This is not merely an administrative adjustment – it concerns the well-being of hundreds of healthcare professionals who continue to serve the community with dedication,” he said.
Healthcare demand typically rises in the late afternoon and early evening during Ramadan, particularly for chronic disease management and emergency cases. Supporters of the proposal argue that a shift-based system could enhance efficiency by aligning staffing levels with peak hours.
If approved by the Cabinet, the revised system could be implemented during the current Ramadan period.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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