TDT | Manama
Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com
Doctors in Bahrain will likely be required to hold insurance to protect against claims of medical errors, under a proposed law that seeks to replace outdated liability regulations with a single, straightforward framework. The draft, submitted by Shura Council members, will be reviewed today and aims to provide clearer protections for healthcare providers and patients.
Currently, medical liability rules are scattered across a collection of older laws, some dating back decades. This fragmented approach has created confusion for healthcare professionals and patients alike. The proposal would consolidate these provisions into one law, incorporating updates from more recent developments, such as establishing the Supreme Council for Health in 2013 and introducing the Health Insurance Law in 2018.
“This draft sets out clear rules to ensure fairness for patients and medical staff, strengthening trust and transparency in Bahrain’s healthcare system,” states the explanatory memorandum. It highlights the need for legislation that aligns with advances in medical practices and technologies. A central feature of the draft is mandatory insurance for healthcare providers, designed to shield them from financial risks while reassuring patients that their rights are safeguarded.
Advocates believe this measure will allow doctors to focus on providing better care without the constant fear of lawsuits. The draft also includes plans to establish a Supreme Committee for Medical Liability. This body, made up of experts and representatives from the medical field, would handle disputes, ensure accountability, and provide a structured process for claims.
According to the memorandum, similar models abroad have shown success in resolving medical disagreements fairly. The proposal also ties into Bahrain’s push to attract more medical tourism. Supporters argue that clear and consistent rules will help build trust in Bahrain’s healthcare sector, drawing patients from across the region.
“This is a step towards establishing Bahrain as a trusted destination for medical care,” the memorandum states. The bill has been tabled by Dr Jameela Mohammed Reza Al Salman, Dr Jehad Abdulla Al Fadhel, Dalal Jassim Al Zayed, Dr Ebtisam Mohammed Saleh Al Dallal, and Dr Hani Ali Al Saati.
