Manama:Lieutenant General Dr. Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Supreme Council of Health (SCH), convened with members of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) Board of Directors to review the upcoming phased implementation of the National Health Insurance Programme for Residents, set to commence on October 31, 2026.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the meeting included the presence of Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce, and Yousif Salahuddin, First Vice Chairman of BCCI. Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdullah underlined the necessity of collaboration with the private sector to ensure a smooth roll-out of the programme, emphasizing the BCCI’s pivotal role in educating employers about the programme's requirements.
The National Health Insurance Programme will mandate basic health insurance that covers primary, secondary, specialist, and emergency healthcare services through approved insurance companies. Employers will have the option to purchase additional coverage packages. The programme will initiate on October 31, in line with the issuance or renewal of work or residence permits, allowing employers adequate time to comply with the necessary requirements.
The Minister of Industry and Commerce stressed the importance of accommodating business needs during the programme's implementation. Meanwhile, BCCI representatives expressed their observations and inquiries concerning the programme, advocating for ongoing consultation and coordination with relevant authorities. Existing healthcare services for Bahraini citizens, domestic workers, and government-employed residents and their dependents will remain unaffected.