SHC rejects proposed medical complex for consultations and training

TDT | Manama

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The Supreme Health Council (SHC) has rejected a parliamentary proposal to establish a comprehensive medical complex for consultations and training, citing legal limitations on the establishment of private clinics. Instead, the SHC proposed alternative solutions to achieve the proposal’s objectives, including government initiatives to increase Bahraini doctor employment and professional development.

Submitted by MPs Khalid Buanaq and Zainab Abdulameer, the proposal aimed to employ unemployed Bahraini medical professionals, funded by Tamkeen (Labour Fund) and the Economic Development Board (EDB). The SHC stated that current regulations only permit the opening of private clinics by specialists and above, excluding newly graduated and unemployed doctors who lack specialist qualifications.

The proposal argued that the complex would integrate experienced consultants to support the national healthcare system, provide employment for unemployed medical graduates under the supervision of consultants, and leverage Tamkeen’s funding for job seekers and training programmes.

It also aimed to boost Bahrain’s health economy and medical tourism. The SHC countered that training for newly licensed doctors should occur in accredited medical centres like teaching hospitals, which offer comprehensive specialties and training standards.

Training

The government healthcare sectors, the SHC explained, already provide training for new graduates through programmes aligned with the Arab Board of Health Specialties and the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties. Furthermore, the Arabian Gulf University (AGU) offers clinical diploma and master’s programmes in family medicine, the SHC stated.