Interview: Dr George Cheriyan, CEO and Chief Medical Officer, American Mission Hospital
In what ways is the transformation of health care in Bahrain improving delivery and raising standards?
DR. GEORGE CHERIYAN: Recent advancements in Bahrain’s health care infrastructure have significantly raised standards and quality. Facilities like the King Hamad University Hospital, and specialised cardiac and cancer care centres enhance the provision of specialised medical services across the kingdom. These institutions provide centralised, high-quality care for critical health issues and embody the integration of advanced technological practices that are pivotal for future health care delivery.
At the same time, we are at a moment when the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) and other technologies marks an inflection point in health care, fostering a shift towards more predictive, pre-emptive and personalised services. This evolution will enable a transition from traditional in-hospital care to community-based health management, emphasising preventive health and patient-centric home care.
Which benefits do you foresee from the increased involvement of the private sector in health care?
CHERIYAN: The trend towards privatisation in Bahrain’s health care sector has the potential to bring several benefits, especially in enhancing service quality and resource management. As the government increasingly delegates routine and specialised health care services to the private sector, there is an opportunity to alleviate the financial and operational burden on public resources, allowing the government to concentrate on managing more complex health issues.
Moreover, privatisation is expected to drive competition among providers, improving service quality and patient care standards. This competitive environment fosters a higher standard of care, encouraging a more patient-centric approach. This type of approach is aligned with global best practices and enhances the overall attractiveness of Bahrain’s health care system as a model of efficient and effective service delivery.
In which ways are new technologies boosting the development of health care services?
CHERIYAN: Technology enhances connectivity, convenience and cost efficiency. Integrating AI and digital technologies, such as telemedicine and remote monitoring, is crucial for the next phase of Bahrain’s health care evolution. These technologies ensure continuous patient engagement and personalised care, streamline operations and predict health care needs – fundamentally changing patient interactions. Future developments should focus on expanding these technologies to cover more aspects of health care, thereby improving the user experience and system integration.
How do you assess private health care in Bahrain as a destination for investment?
CHERIYAN: The health care sector presents an attractive landscape for investment, bolstered by government initiatives aimed at privatisation and enhancing infrastructure. The private sector is set to play a greater role, with the government looking to decentralise health care services and shift more responsibilities to private entities. This transition allows for a greater focus on efficiency and quality in service delivery, making the sector appealing to local and foreign investors.
However, given the country’s relatively small size and population, the health care market does not have room for a high number of players. This necessitates strategic and innovative investment to ensure sustainability and profitability. Mergers and acquisitions could offer opportunities for consolidation, creating more robust and financially stable entities capable of competing and thriving in a competitive market.
Furthermore, there is potential for developing specialised services that cater to both the local population and the regional market. Such specialisations can attract investment and foster the growth of centres of excellence, which in turn are able to serve as models for high-quality health care provision across the region.
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