Shura Council passes proposal for committee to handle medical negligence complaints

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

The Shura Council passed a proposal yesterday suggesting that complaints of medical malpractice in Bahrain be handled by a committee named the Supreme Medical Liability Committee before proceeding to a court.

This body will assess malpractice cases and advise on potential prosecutions.

Another significant feature of the proposal approved by the Shura Council is that it mandates civil liability insurance for healthcare professionals.

The 35-article proposal consolidates existing regulations on medical liability and has now been referred to the government for further review and formal drafting.

Clear legal principles

Dr Ibtisam Al Dallal, the Services Committee rapporteur, said the proposal “establishes clear legal principles on rights, responsibilities, and accountability for everyone in the medical field while keeping pace with advances in modern healthcare.”

She added, “It strengthens the system by closing loopholes, ensuring stability and clarity for both doctors and patients.”

Supporters argue that the law will bring greater certainty to Bahrain’s healthcare sector while reinforcing its position as a destination for medical treatment.

“A well-defined liability law reassures investors by creating a stable legal foundation,” Al Dallal said. “It allows institutions to assess risks, make informed decisions, and provide a safer, more transparent system for both doctors and patients.”

Cornerstone of well-run healthcare system

Dr Jameela Al Salman, Chair of the Services Committee, backed the proposal, describing medical liability as “a cornerstone of any well-run healthcare system.” She pointed out that 57 medical errors were recorded in 2023, compared to 42 in 2024, while 320 malpractice complaints were submitted to the National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA) in 2023, with 358 cases reviewed and closed. In 2024, 258 complaints were filed, of which 287 were processed.

Compensation

“Since the start of this legislative term, government hospitals and primary healthcare centres have paid out 100,000 dinars in court-ordered malpractice compensation,” she said. “This framework will improve Bahrain’s standing in medical tourism, establish a Supreme Medical Liability Committee, introduce civil liability insurance for malpractice, and provide stronger legal protections for healthcare workers.”

She also stressed that doctors should not face detention over malpractice claims unless the Supreme Medical Liability Committee establishes clear grounds for it.

Concerns

The Supreme Council of Health, the Ministry of Health, and NHRA have expressed concerns, arguing that Bahrain already has malpractice liability laws and that an alternative bill may cover the same ground.

They warn that introducing overlapping regulations could create legal complications.

Financial concerns have also been raised. The Finance and Economic Affairs Committee cautioned that mandatory malpractice insurance could place a financial strain on hospitals, clinics, and the public purse.

However, Dr Jehad Al Fadhel rejected this view, calling the bill “a long-term investment rather than a financial burden.”

She argued that it would build trust in Bahrain’s healthcare sector while ensuring a fair balance between patients’ rights and the responsibilities of medical professionals.