Healthcare System and Investment in the Kingdom of Bahrain

The Ministry of Health (MoH) formulates the health policy in the Kingdom of Bahrain to ensure its population has access to quality healthcare. To achieve this, the MoH runs a network of hospitals, clinics and specialized care centers which offer healthcare to Bahraini nationals. The MoH works with the Supreme Council of Health (SCH) which works on developing the healthcare strategy. Additionally, the MoH also partners with the National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA) which acts as a private sector regulator to ensure regulated and accountable healthcare facilities, safe and trusted health services, and preserved patients health rights.

Healthcare Structure and Services

The Kingdom of Bahrain has made Primary Healthcare services possible thanks to the network of health centers around the country, the application of family medical services, community health nurses, health promotion specialists, and social workers. Secondary healthcare is provided by the Ministry of Health, made possible by several hospitals including Bahrain's main hospital, Salmaniya Medical Complex and Psychiatric, and Maternity and Geriatric Hospitals. Tertiary Healthcare is provided for advanced and complex cases, which require attention from specialists.

Financing and the SEHATI Program

Universal health care is being rolled out in the Kingdom of Bahrain in accordance with the National Health Insurance Law of 2018. The law has fostered the Social Health Insurance Program (SEHATI), under which members of the fund will pay insurance contributions in return for funding their health claims. The model will offer healthcare coverage of treatments and services to nationals, domestic workers, and low-income foreign workers. Under this system, employers are liable to make payments for any foreign employees. The health insurance policy can be issued by licensed insurers, who are approved by the regulators. For access to more health benefits, Bahraini nationals are allowed to take out voluntary health insurance packages with the fund. When one wishes to be treated at a private hospital, center, or clinic, the government will pay up to 60% of the treatment cost, and the patient will pay the remaining 40%.

Investment Opportunities and Therapeutic Tourism

The government is keen to turn Bahrain into a regional destination for therapeutic tourism through an ambitious vision to achieve a comprehensive health system. President of the Supreme Health Council Lieutenant General Dr. Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa pointed out therapeutic tourism as a key national initiative, urging to take advantage of Bahrain's distinguished medical capabilities to boost the kingdom's standing on the tourism map by providing advanced medical services at competitive prices. Lucrative opportunities to invest in the kingdom’s healthcare space include but not limited to:

• Specialized Medical Care
• Research and Development
• Medical Tourism
• Laboratory Equipment and Consumables
• Wellness and Prevention

Technology and Innovation

Digital solutions are advancing through the National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA). For instance, the Doctori app is a self-titled mobile app that enables patients to remotely connect with a licensed healthcare provider of their choice via video. The Doctori app, which is now available for both iOS and Android devices, allows for online consultations, medical prescriptions, and consultation reports.

Challenges and Strategic Solutions

The health sector in Bahrain faces challenges towards development. In response, the kingdom’s efforts ensure comprehensive development of the health services system in tune with the leadership's directives and the goals of Bahrain Economic Vision 2030.