The Assistant Deputy Minister of the
Private Health Sector, Dr. Ali Al-Zawawi stated that the Ministry of
Health has filed a request to amend article 7 in the Private Healthcare
Institutions Regulations. This would give authority to the MoH to
standardize health service fees and in turn reduce financial
malpractice. Some doctors would conduct tests, x-rays, and the likes in
order to financially exploit patients. He also indicated that this request is
currently being considered by the authorities.
Dr. Ali Al-Zawawi highlighted that the
MoH conducts many inspections and observations in the private health
sector to insure the implementation of rules and regulations. To achieve
this, inspection committees from the Health Affairs Directorates
periodically follow-up institutes, or pay unexpected visits. Inspections
are also based on citizens’ complains via the (Citizen’s Voice) service
on the Ministry’s Portal.
He pointed out that the Ministry’s
statistics in 1433H demonstrates its efforts to detect and resolve any
deficiency in healthcare services. In that year, 136 healthcare
institutions and pharmaceutical facilities were closed, 1625
irregularities and decisions against private health institutions were
issued, 1030 irregularities and decisions against medical and technical
staff were issued by the Inspection Committee of Practicing Healthcare
Professions. Also, 485 irregularities and decisions against technical
and medical staff were issued by legitimate health institutions.
Dr. Ali Al-Zawawi went on to add that
the most important decision made by the Ministry, was to oblige public
and private hospitals, as well as clinics, and medical centers to adhere
to quality standards. They must also obtain accreditation certificates
as a basic requirement for the licensing of their health institutions.
It is hoped that this will contribute to increasing the quality of medical service
provided to patients.
Furthermore, Dr. Ali Al-Zawawi clarified
that the Ministry has electronically linked private health services to
the Emigration Department in various regions. Expatriates’ and caterers’
certificates will be verified, in order to avoid forgery. Moreover, the
Ministry has an electronic scheme for issuing medical licenses for both
health institutions and medical staff. This scheme is in its final
stages, and upon completion will facilitate the inspection and follow-up
process of such facilities.