Interview: Dr Jalila bint Al Sayyed Jawad Hassan, Minister of Health
How does the National Social Health Insurance Programme (Sehati) initiative fit into Bahrain’s broader vision for health care reform?
DR. JALILA BINT AL SAYYED JAWAD HASSAN: Sehati is a cornerstone of the country’s health care reform agenda. It embodies a holistic approach to health care delivery, striving to achieve equitable access, foster a competitive medical landscape and ensure the financial sustainability of the system. This aligns with Bahrain Economic Vision 2030, a blueprint for transforming the country into a globally competitive economy. Sehati is a comprehensive vision for a healthier, more equitable and more sustainable future. Through planning, strategic partnerships and a commitment to excellence, Sehati is poised to transform the way health care is delivered and accessed.
To what extent has technology played a role in advancing health care services?
BINT AL SAYYED: Technology has played a transformative role in advancing health care systems in Bahrain, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. Systems evolved to adapt to the situation, with a focus on integrating electronic health records for seamless information sharing across health sectors. Bahrain capitalised on this opportunity by introducing and expanding telemedicine services in the private and public sectors, allowing patients to receive remote services as needed. This innovative approach to health care delivery has overcome geographical barriers, enabling patients to consult with health care professionals remotely, access specialist care from the comfort of their homes, and receive timely medical advice and prescriptions.
Beyond the immediate response to the pandemic, Bahrain has embarked on ambitious technological initiatives with long-term implications for the future of health care. Bahrain has launched the National Genome Programme, leveraging advances in genomics technology and molecular biology. The project aims to create a comprehensive database for the country, laying the groundwork for population-targeted prevention schemes and personalised medical care in the future.
What strategies are health care providers using to compete with neighbouring countries in attracting and retaining skilled professionals?
BINT AL SAYYED: Health care providers have adopted a multi-faceted approach to attract and retain medical talent. This strategic approach aims to maintain the kingdom’s reputation for delivering professional health care services and foster a thriving medical community.
One of the key strategies is the ongoing initiative within the GCC to provide cross-border health care for nationals and residents. By leveraging the diverse expertise within the region, Bahrain’s health care providers can offer comprehensive training programmes that encompass undergraduate, postgraduate and fellowship levels, thereby nurturing a highly skilled, adaptable health care workforce.
Where do you identify challenges in the implementation of the national health insurance law?
BINT AL SAYYED: The rollout of the national health insurance law has not been without its hurdles. This is primarily due to the intricate nature of its execution and the need to navigate complex regulatory frameworks, which have presented significant challenges for both health care providers and the beneficiaries of the programme. Striking a balance between implementing new regulations and ensuring the continuity of existing services has proven to be a demanding task.
Additionally, the emergence of the pandemic further exacerbated these challenges. The global health crisis disrupted medical systems around the world, straining resources and necessitating rapid adaptations in order to meet the evolving needs of the population. This unprecedented situation required agile decision-making and innovative solutions to ensure the continued progress of the national health insurance programme.
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