Forum on improving national health services held

Manama, Dec. 20 (BNA): Chairman of the Supreme Council for Health (SCH), Lt-Gen Dr. Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, stressed the Health Insurance Scheme provides comprehensive health services for all citizens, it also enhances competitiveness and contributes to improve the quality of medical services. This came during the SCH Chairman's participation in the dialogue forum on the Health Insurance Scheme and improving health services. The forum was organised by Bahrain Insurance Association (BIA) and hosted by Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF). BIA Chairman Yahiya Nooradine, SCH Sec-Gen Ibrahim Al-Nawakhtha and a number of members of insurance companies were also present. SCH Chairman underlined keenness to continue cooperation with BIA to improve the national health services. He gave a detailed presentation of the health insurance system and roles of parties linked to the Health Insurance Scheme. He reviewed the Health Insurance Scheme operational phases and enhancing the role of private health institutions and insurance companies. He said the insurance companies will cover insurance for foreigners, while the National Health Insurance Fund (SHIFA) will cover insurance for citizens. He noted the health packages to be provided for citizens and the government's commitment to cover the health insurance installments to be paid for the SHIFA.