Debate heats up over 50% Bahraini reservation in private healthcare

TDT | Manama                                                      

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As the parliament gears up for it next session, the proposal to reserve 50% of positions for Bahrainis in private healthcare institutions is sparking intense discussions.

While proponents argue that this initiative could tackle unemployment among local medical professionals, the government expresses concerns that it may pose more challenges than benefits.

Despite the government's reservations, the House of Representatives' Services Committee has already approved the bill, paving the way for a full vote in the upcoming session on Tuesday.

Experts point out that the outcome of this legislation could significantly reshape the landscape of Bahrain's private healthcare sector.

What the bill says? The proposed bill, which seeks to amend Article 14 of Decree-Law No. 21 of 2015 governing private healthcare, has become a focal point of debate. Advocates assert that the high number of expatriate workers in healthcare is exacerbating joblessness among Bahrainis.

They believe that prioritizing local talent will not only strengthen the healthcare sector but also empower Bahrainis to play a more significant role in its development. Government Concerns However, government officials caution that implementing a 50% reservation could lead to a significant skills gap in specialized roles.

“We risk straining private healthcare facilities to find Bahraini professionals with the necessary expertise,” officials warn.

The existing law mandates that private institutions employ sufficient medical, technical, and nursing staff based on their classification and patient capacity, but it does not currently specify a local employment percentage.

Current landscape A recent report from the National Health Regulatory Authority highlights the complexity of the situation: as of late 2024, over 22,000 healthcare professionals—including doctors, nurses, and pharmacists— were employed across 73 clinics, 325 health centres, and 24 hospitals.

Yet, a shortage of Bahraini specialists in critical areas like radiology and nursing remains a significant hurdle, complicating efforts to meet the proposed 50% workforce target.

Challenges However, according to Labour Ministry figures, approximately 970 Bahrainis were actively seeking healthcare jobs at the end of 2023. However, many lacked the necessary training in crucial specialties.

Gradual targets In response to these challenges, the Services Committee has recommended advancing the bill but with modifications to support private healthcare providers.

They propose setting gradual targets and expanding training programmes to cultivate a skilled Bahraini workforce while maintaining high-quality care standards.

Striking a Balance As the debate unfolds, the focus remains on striking a balance between promoting Bahraini employment and ensuring that private healthcare institutions can continue to provide the high standard of care that patients deserve.