SCH Chairman Visits First Computer-Based Medical Residency Admission Examination

Manama: Lieutenant General Dr. Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Supreme Council of Health (SCH) and Chairman of the Bahrain Council for Health Studies and Specialisations, visited the University of Bahrain where the first computer-based medical residency admission examination was held. The examination is held in cooperation with the Arab Board of Health Specialisations.

According to Bahrain News Agency, Dr. Jaleela bint Al Sayed Jawad Hassan, Minister of Health; Dr. Fuad Mohammed Al Ansari, President of the University of Bahrain; Dr. Ibrahim Ali Al Nawakhdha, Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Health; and Dr. Ijlal Faisal Al Alawi, Chief Executive of Primary Healthcare Centres, were also present during the visit.

Lt. Gen. Dr. Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdullah emphasized that the examination marks a significant step in enhancing Bahrain's medical training system by applying unified, high-quality mechanisms for selecting qualified medical professionals. This initiative supports residency programmes and is aimed at preparing a competent healthcare workforce in alignment with approved professional standards.

He further stated that conducting the first computer-based residency examination reflects Bahrain's dedication to adopting digital solutions and applying international best practices in managing admission examinations. The examination saw a substantial number of applicants following a six-week registration period, during which applications were reviewed and verified against the admission requirements.

The Health Minister noted that the examination is part of ongoing efforts to bolster the capabilities of medical professionals, enabling them to deliver integrated healthcare in line with the highest standards. She praised the partnership with the Arab Board of Health Specialisations and the efforts of the supporting and organizing entities.

The minister also highlighted the collaborative efforts of the SCH and its partners in planning, supervising, and implementing the examination. She stressed the importance of strengthening partnerships with specialized regional institutions to support medical training and prepare qualified healthcare professionals, while also enhancing the quality and sustainability of Bahrain's healthcare sector.

The medical residency admission examination serves as a competitive platform for doctors seeking to join residency training programmes across various medical specialties. It aims to select applicants based on unified scientific standards that ensure fairness, transparency, and equal opportunities.

Personal interviews for shortlisted candidates are scheduled to take place during August, with final admission results to be announced ahead of the start of the residency programmes in October.