Free Rides for Elderly Patients Up for Debate

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

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Bahrain’s elderly could soon have access to free rides for doctor’s appointments, as MPs take up a key proposal next Tuesday to fund transport for seniors in need of care. This plan seeks to ease the trouble of reaching check-ups and treatments, making sure older citizens can get the care they need without the added task of finding transport.

Currently, the Ministry of Health does not provide specific transport services for elderly patients, although government hospitals do offer a similar option for kidney patients who have no other means or need assistance due to health issues. The Ministry has acknowledged the proposal, indicating it may consider extending transport assistance to more elderly patients if resources allow.

Bahrain’s healthcare system already includes mobile clinics run by primary health centres to assist elderly patients who struggle to visit medical facilities. These mobile units bring consultations, lab tests, and social support to those who are housebound, providing a straightforward solution for older individuals needing regular care.

The Services Committee, led by MP Mamdouh Al Saleh, reviewed the proposal after Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam referred it in June and has backed it. MPs Maryam Al Dhaen, Ahmed Al Salloom, Mahdi Al Shuwaikh, and Hanan Fardan support the scheme, viewing it as an important step toward easing healthcare access for Bahrain’s ageing population.

With the committee’s approval, the proposal now heads to Parliament, where it’s likely to win broad support. If approved by parliament and government, it would serve as a key help for seniors, easing travel troubles and giving them simpler access to healthcare sites.