Bahraini women ‘at the heart’ of health sector: From early nurses to leadership roles

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahraini women are making remarkable strides in the health sector, now forming a growing majority of doctors in both public and private fields. They are also stepping into leadership roles at an increasing rate — a journey that began with the appointment of the first qualified Bahraini nurse in 1941.

Dr Amer Al Durazi, President of the Board of Directors of the Bahrain Medical Society, praised these advances, emphasising that women have become a core part of healthcare. “Their presence has grown steadily, and they’re not just participants — they’re shaping how healthcare operates,” he said.

Improvements

Speaking on Bahraini Women’s Day, Dr Al Durazi pointed to how female doctors and health leaders are driving improvements in women’s health, both directly through care and indirectly through their managerial influence.

The country, he noted, has expanded its services to address women’s needs across their lives, aiming to ensure their physical and mental well-being. Dr Al Durazi reflected on key moments in Bahrain’s healthcare history, including Dr Nada Abbas Haffadh’s appointment as the first female Minister of Health and the recent recognition of Her Excellency Dr Jaleela Sayed Jawad Hassan, the Minister of Health, who received a prestigious award for her contributions to the Arab health sector.

Achievements

MP Dr Maryam Al Dhaen also commended these achievements, linking them to Bahrain’s ongoing efforts to meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in promoting healthy lives. She stressed the country’s focus on preventive care and health awareness, noting how these approaches are woven into the national healthcare system.

Dr Al Dhaen acknowledged the unwavering support of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. She credited this backing with enabling Bahraini women to thrive in healthcare and other fields. The lawmaker also celebrated the role of the Supreme Council for Women, chaired by Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa. The council, she said, has advanced equal opportunities and bolstered women’s involvement in society, paving the way for lasting progress.

Pride

Both Dr Al Durazi and Dr Al Dhaen expressed their pride in Bahraini women’s accomplishments. They emphasised that women have proven themselves not only capable but indispensable in the country’s development. “We’re heading towards an even brighter future,” they said, “and Bahraini women will continue to be at the heart of it all.”