Manama, April 8 (BNA): The health steps Bahrain has achieved on the basis of a solid operational framework, technical infrastructure, high level of preparedness and practices consistent with international standards have been praised.
“The Kingdom has set a role model in promoting health for all, driven by outstanding achievements,” said Dr. Ahmed Salem Saif Al-Mandhari, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean.
He made these remarks in a pre-recorded message during the celebration of World Health Day, which this year coincides with the 75th anniversary of the founding of the World Health Organization, under the slogan “Health for All: 75 Years”. to improve public health.”
The opening ceremony, which was held under the auspices of the President of the Supreme Council of Health, Lieutenant-General Dr. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, was attended by the Minister of Health, Dr. Jalila bint Syed Jawad Hassan, representative of the World Health Organization in the Kingdom. Dr. Tasneem Ghaleb Atatreh and senior officials and employees.
Dr. Al-Mandhari praised Bahrain’s achievements in promoting the Expanded Immunization Program, and maintaining the level of measles and rubella elimination in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, especially during the outbreak of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
He praised Bahrain’s drive to preserve primary care by providing effective and prompt protection for emergency developments, as evidenced by its immediate response to the pandemic.
He said that Bahrain was among the first countries to document its successful experience in cooperation with the World Health Organization, noting that the health insurance program supports comprehensive coverage for all citizens and residents.
He emphasized that the Geneva-based organization declared Manama a healthy city. Thus, it became the first capital in the Eastern Mediterranean region.
He pointed out that Umm Al-Hassam was approved as the first health city in Bahrain, indicating that other cities such as A’Ali and Busaiteen – Sayyah will also join the network of healthy cities.
Dr. Al-Mandhari highlighted Bahrain’s efforts to hone the skills of health workers through qualitative programs at the academic and practical levels, citing the initiative of the University of Bahrain as a collaborating center with the World Health Organization in 1990 to use data in nursing practice and education. and improving midwifery competencies.
He concluded, “The Arabian Gulf University joined as a collaborating center in 2019 by improving the level of health education and the competencies of workers in this field to upgrade medical personnel.”