AGP Executive Report

Health Workforce & Regulation: Bahrain’s National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA) launched the first national dental assistant licensing exam, built by local experts to boost transparency and patient safety. Medical Training: The Supreme Council for Health (SCH) highlighted progress at Salmaniya Medical Complex, including a new electronic training platform for doctors in residency programmes. Fertility & Family Health: Bahrain is seeing more couples delay pregnancy into their late 30s and early 40s, with growing use of fertility treatments like IVF—alongside persistent social stigma. Digital Government for Health Safety: Bahrain’s Supreme Council for Environment (SCE) cut digital chemical purchasing processing from 20 working days to five, using automation to strengthen compliance with health and safety rules. Community & Wellness Education: Arabian Gulf University kicked off the “Gulf Medical Camp” for 60 students, giving a hands-on taste of medical life. Humanitarian Milestone: Royal Humanitarian Foundation (RHF) marked 25 years with an exhibition celebrating decades of community service.

Mental Health in Focus: US CENTCOM chief Adm. Brad Cooper praised the USS Abraham Lincoln crew’s camaraderie and resilience during a West Asia tour, stressing that mental health needs equal attention alongside physical wellbeing as the carrier nears record-long deployment. Local Health Regulation: Bahrain’s NHRA launched the first national dental assistant licensing exam to boost transparency, efficiency and patient safety through standardized professional assessment. Back-to-School Health: Bahrain doctors advised parents to keep school bags as light as possible and properly fitted, noting wheeled bags can help on flat routes but aren’t ideal for stairs or crowded areas. Public Hygiene Concerns: Bahrain lawmakers urged stronger enforcement after complaints about rodents, foul smells and public hygiene issues in old souq areas and Hoora, warning of potential public health risks. Nutrition Transparency Idea: Bahrain is studying a possible system that could require restaurants to disclose calorie information to support healthier choices, especially for chronic conditions. Food Safety: Authorities moved to close an unlicensed restaurant as part of a food safety crackdown.

National Health Insurance: Bahrain’s Supreme Council for Health has signed an agreement with Solidarity Bahrain to roll out the Health Insurance for Residents programme, a key step in the phased National Health Insurance rollout, covering primary and secondary care plus emergency services via accredited insurers and an integrated digital platform. Public Health & Safety: Doctors in Bahrain are advising parents on school bag choices ahead of the new term, saying bags should be light, fit properly and be worn on both shoulders; wheeled bags can help on flat routes, but schools should also push lockers and reduce what children carry. Food & Nutrition Transparency: Bahrain is studying a possible system that could require restaurants to display calorie information, with lawmakers saying it could help people manage diabetes, obesity and other chronic conditions. Community Hygiene: Bahrain’s capital back streets are under scrutiny after complaints about rodents, foul smells and poor cleanliness, prompting calls for stronger enforcement and daily patrols. Mental Health in Focus (US, regional impact): Reports of strain aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln continue as CENTCOM’s Adm. Brad Cooper visited the carrier and Bahrain during a West Asia tour, amid ongoing debate over crew conditions and logistics. Maritime Security: Bahrain urged UN action after an attack in the Strait of Hormuz, stressing the strait’s role in energy security and the movement of food and medicine.

National Health Insurance Milestone: Bahrain’s Supreme Council for Health signed an agreement with Solidarity Bahrain to roll out Health Insurance for Residents as part of the National Health Insurance Programme, covering primary, secondary and emergency care via accredited providers and an integrated digital platform. Food & Nutrition Transparency: Bahrain is studying a plan that could require restaurants to display calorie information, backed by lawmakers as a practical step for people managing diabetes, obesity and other chronic conditions. Public Hygiene Push: Manama residents are calling for stronger enforcement in old souq and Hoora after complaints about rodents, foul smells and unsafe street hygiene, with warnings that poor sanitation could raise public health risks. Food Safety Crackdown: A Northern Governorate restaurant was shut down after inspections found it lacked the proper licences to sell food and drinks, including online operations without permissions. Addiction Support: Bahrain Alcoholics Anonymous advocates say community-based support is vital for people overcoming alcohol addiction, highlighting local meetings and online options. Scam Warning: Police urged people not to click suspicious links and to verify official websites, warning about fake government portals and phishing tactics. Health Care Access Abroad: A Kozhikode woman receiving treatment at Salmaniya Medical Complex was flown home for further care after intervention by Bahrain’s Pravasi Legal Cell and the Indian Embassy. Air Quality Alert (Regional): Dhaka’s AQI was reported “moderate” at 94, with reminders that air pollution can harm heart and lung health. Logistics & Trade (Bahrain link): DHL expanded China-to-Middle East air cargo capacity, including a new Shanghai–Bangkok–Bahrain–Brussels route, supporting regional supply chains.

National Health Insurance Milestone: Bahrain’s Supreme Council for Health signed an agreement with Solidarity Bahrain to roll out Health Insurance for Residents, covering primary, secondary and emergency care via accredited providers and an integrated digital platform. Healthcare Support in Practice: Salmaniya Medical Complex patient Zeenath Cholakkal was flown home from Bahrain to Kochi for further treatment after intervention by the Indian Embassy and Pravasi Legal Cell Bahrain. Public Health & Safety: Bahrain’s Industry and Commerce Ministry shut an unlicensed Northern Governorate restaurant after inspections found missing food and drink authorisations, urging businesses to secure proper licences before operating. Scam Warning: Bahrain police warned residents to avoid fake government website links and check domains carefully before clicking or sharing details. Regional Health Link: Bahrain urged the UN Security Council to act over the Strait of Hormuz attack on ADNOC tankers, stressing the strait’s role in energy security and the flow of food and medicine. Air Quality Watch: Dhaka’s AQI stayed “moderate” at 94, with officials noting air pollution’s major health risks. Youth & Wellness: Bahrain’s Supreme Council for Youth and Sports reviewed initiatives including a special visa for professional athletes and a calorie-awareness push for healthier lifestyles.

National Health Insurance: Bahrain’s Supreme Council for Health has signed an agreement with Solidarity Bahrain to roll out mandatory Health Insurance for Residents as part of the National Health Insurance Programme, covering primary and secondary care plus emergency services via accredited providers and an integrated digital platform. Public Health & Safety: Bahrain’s police have warned residents about fake official website scams, urging people to check links carefully (e.g., .gov/.bh) before clicking or sharing personal details. Youth & Wellness: The Supreme Council for Youth and Sports reviewed initiatives including a special visa framework for professional athletes and a calorie-awareness push to support healthier lifestyles. Healthcare for Families: KIMSHEALTH launched a “Discover Healthcare” summer camp for children and teens in Bahrain, aimed at boosting health awareness early. Education Pathways: CPISP and CPISPAA held a virtual mentoring event for shortlisted 2027 scholarship candidates, covering university applications, majors, tests, and career planning. Food Safety: An unlicensed restaurant in Bahrain’s Northern Governorate was shut down after inspections found it lacked the required licences to sell food and drinks. Logistics & Access: DHL Express expanded its Shenzhen “super gateway” and added a new daily Shanghai–Bangkok–Bahrain–Brussels route, boosting time-definite cargo capacity across Asia, the Middle East and Europe. Cybersecurity: A report flags rising cyberattacks targeting U.S. water utilities, including incidents that triggered boil-water notices.

National Health Insurance: Bahrain’s Supreme Council of Health (SCH) has signed an agreement with Solidarity Bahrain to roll out mandatory Health Insurance for Residents as part of the National Health Insurance Programme, covering primary, secondary and emergency care via accredited insurers and an integrated digital platform. Community Health Support: A Good Word Society initiative, with Bahrain Diabetes Society and partners including the Zakat and Charity Fund, provided 10 insulin pumps for children with diabetes to help improve daily management. Food Safety Enforcement: Bahrain’s Industry and Commerce Ministry shut down an unlicensed Northern Governorate restaurant after inspections found missing licences for selling food and drinks and an invalid commercial registration listing. Youth & Health Education: KIMSHEALTH launched “Discover Healthcare,” a free summer camp for children and teens (10–16) in Bahrain focused on hands-on learning about bodies, nutrition and health skills. Vaccination Reminder: Bahrain’s Health Ministry urged parents to keep children’s vaccinations up to date, warning that delays can harm both individuals and community protection. Sports & Lifestyle: Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad chaired youth and sports council talks, including a proposed special visa for professional athletes and a calorie-awareness push to support healthier lifestyles.

National Health Insurance: Bahrain’s Supreme Council of Health has signed an agreement with Solidarity Bahrain to roll out mandatory Health Insurance for Residents as part of the National Health Insurance Programme, covering primary, secondary and emergency care via accredited insurers and an integrated digital platform. Diabetes Support: A community initiative provided insulin pumps to children with diabetes, with SCH leadership and partners including the Bahrain Diabetes Society and the Zakat and Charity Fund contributing devices and glucose monitoring sensors. Youth & Healthier Living: The Supreme Council for Youth and Sports reviewed plans including a special visa for professional athletes and a push for calorie awareness and healthier lifestyles. Kids in Healthcare: KIMSHEALTH launched “Discover Healthcare,” a free summer camp for children and teens (ages 10–16) running Aug 19–21 in Umm Al Hassam, with hands-on sessions on nutrition, body basics and oral health. Vaccination Reminder: Bahrain’s Health Ministry urged parents to keep children’s vaccinations up to date and avoid delays to protect both individuals and the wider community. Heat Safety at Work: Training for over 120 workers at the East Sitra housing project focused on recognising heat stress and heatstroke, with insulated water bottles and cooling towels, alongside Bahrain’s midday work ban. Finance Watch (Local): GFH reported H1 2026 net profit attributable to shareholders up 13.33% to US$76.2m, while Bank ABC’s H1 net profit fell 27% to US$111m due to higher provisions.

Community Health & Prevention: Parents in Bahrain are urged to keep children’s vaccinations up to date and not delay appointments, with the Health Ministry stressing that higher coverage protects the wider community and helps prevent the return of communicable diseases. Youth Health Education: KIMSHEALTH launches “Discover Healthcare” in Bahrain, a free summer camp for children and teens (ages 10–16) running Aug 19–21, with hands-on sessions on nutrition, vital signs, oral health and more. Diabetes Support: A community initiative provided insulin pumps to children with diabetes, with support from the Bahrain Diabetes Society and partners including the Zakat and Charity Fund, aiming to improve day-to-day management and quality of life. Workplace Safety in Summer: Bahrain Free Labour Unions Federation trained over 120 workers at an East Sitra housing project on recognising heat stress and heatstroke, with the campaign running alongside the midday outdoor work ban (June 15–Aug 31). Local Health System Access: Bahrain’s Smart ID is now mandatory for non-emergency hospital care, tightening access rules for patients seeking treatment. Health & Wellness Philanthropy: Bahrain’s “digital generation” is turning social media activism into real-world giving, including a Rotaract visit to a geriatric centre in Muharraq to support residents through companionship and care.

Digital Health Upgrade in Bahrain: Salmaniya Medical Complex is stepping up its digital transformation, with senior Supreme Council for Health officials reviewing new electronic systems including the MAK-RMS medical records platform to better connect government hospitals and improve patient care. Diabetes Support: A community initiative supplied 10 insulin pumps for children with diabetes, backed by the Bahrain Diabetes Society and the Good Word Society, with additional contributions including glucose monitoring sensors. Workplace Heat Safety: Bahrain’s midday work ban is in force, and a heat-stress awareness session trained over 120 workers at the East Sitra housing project on spotting heatstroke and helping a colleague before emergency support arrives. Health Education for Youth: Bahrain’s Ministry of Health launched “Genome Guides” at Youth City 2030 to teach young people about human genomics and how it will shape future healthcare, including precision medicine and gene therapy. Local Health System Access: Bahrain is also pushing smarter access to care, including Smart ID requirements for non-emergency hospital visits. Community & Wellbeing: Solidarity Bahrain released its 2025 ESG report, highlighting employee wellbeing efforts like medical check-ups and first-aid training.

Digital Health Upgrade: Bahrain’s Supreme Council for Health chief Lt Gen Dr Shaikh Mohammed visited Salmaniya Medical Complex to review new electronic systems, including the MAK-RMS medical records platform, as Government Hospitals push faster, more integrated care. Heat Safety at Work: Bahrain Free Labour Unions Federation trained 120+ workers at East Sitra on spotting heat stress/heatstroke and what to do if a colleague collapses, with the campaign running alongside the midday work ban (June 15–Aug 31). Food Truck Expansion: Eight public locations across Bahrain’s governorates were designated for food trucks, with a new electronic permit platform launched by the Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry. Genomics for Youth: The Ministry of Health launched the “Genome Guides” program at Youth City 2030 to teach young people about human genomics and its role in future healthcare. Court & Public Safety: A 21-year-old woman was jailed for one year and ordered deported after a candle-lit fire killed her roommate; a separate case continues over a road dispute that left a man with a permanent shoulder disability. Payments Security: stc pay introduced “Secure Approve” for in-app authentication of online card payments, replacing SMS/email OTPs with real-time merchant and amount review.

Digital Health in Bahrain: Salmaniya Medical Complex is stepping up its digital transformation, with senior health officials reviewing new electronic systems including the MAK-RMS medical records platform to better connect Government Hospitals and improve patient experience. Workplace Heat Safety: More than 120 workers at East Sitra received practical training on recognising heat stress and heatstroke and what to do if a colleague collapses, with the session timed to Bahrain’s midday work ban (June 15–Aug 31). Genomics for Youth: Bahrain launched the “Genome Guides” programme at Youth City 2030 to introduce young people to human genomics, clinical genomics, gene therapy and precision medicine. Primary Care Skills: A new Bahrain study calls for targeted training and resources so primary care providers can better deliver minor surgical procedures. Health System Readiness: Bahrain says it has no cause for alarm over hantavirus, citing stronger surveillance, labs and emergency planning built after Covid-19. Food & Health Security: Philippines authorities reported foot-and-mouth disease-driven import bans on live animals and certain animal products from multiple countries, including Bahrain. Health Tech & Biopharma: Merck expands its Singapore biosafety testing lab to strengthen analytical and biosafety services across Asia Pacific.

Bahrain Health Tech: Salmaniya Medical Complex gets a boost to its digital transformation, with officials reviewing the new Medical Records Management System (MAK-RMS) to better connect government hospitals and improve patient service. Genomics for Youth: Bahrain’s Ministry of Health launches the “Genome Guides” program at Youth City 2030, training young people on human genomics, clinical genomics, gene therapy, and precision medicine. Primary Care Skills: A new Bahrain study urges targeted training and resources for primary care doctors to perform minor surgical procedures, highlighting barriers and the need to strengthen local health-centre capacity. Emerging Disease Readiness: Bahrain says it has no cause for alarm over hantavirus, pointing to stronger surveillance, labs, and emergency planning built after Covid-19. Food & Health Safety: The Philippines moves to ban animal imports linked to foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks, including Bahrain, underscoring how animal health rules can ripple into regional food supply chains. Digital Payments Security: stc pay Bahrain rolls out “Secure Approve,” an in-app authentication feature for online card payments to reduce OTP-related fraud risks.

Digital Health Upgrade: Bahrain’s Supreme Council for Health chief Lt Gen Dr Shaikh Mohammed visited Salmaniya Medical Complex to review new electronic health systems, including the Medical Records Management System (MAK-RMS) aimed at linking government hospitals for more secure, integrated care. Genomics for Youth: Bahrain launched the “Genome Guides” training at Youth City 2030, teaching young people about human genomics, clinical genomics, gene therapy, precision medicine and pharmacogenomics. Primary Care Skills: A new Bahrain study urges targeted training and resources for primary care physicians to perform minor surgical procedures safely and effectively, citing attitudes and barriers across local health centres. Diabetes Summer Care: Bahrain Diabetes Society members warn that hot weather can worsen skin issues for people with diabetes, stressing daily foot and skin checks and proper moisturising to prevent infections. Gulf Health Cooperation: Bahrain reaffirmed support for GCC health integration and pharmaceutical security at the Gulf Health Council executive board meeting in Riyadh, highlighting unified procurement and medicine supply continuity. Breastfeeding Support: The Bahrain Nursing and Midwifery Society joined World Breastfeeding Week activities with SMC, visiting labour rooms and postnatal wards to encourage breastfeeding and guide new mothers.

Primary Care Training: Bahrain’s Health Ministry researchers say more targeted training and resources are needed for physicians to deliver minor surgical procedures in primary care, after a study surveyed 338 doctors on attitudes and barriers. Gulf Health Cooperation: Bahrain reaffirmed support for GCC health integration at the Gulf Health Council executive board meeting in Riyadh, highlighting the Gulf Unified Procurement Programme to boost pharmaceutical security and medicine supply. Diabetes Summer Care: Bahrain Diabetes Society urges people with diabetes to protect skin and feet in hot weather, warning that small cuts can worsen fast and lead to serious infections. Smart ID for Non-Emergency Care: Government hospitals now require patients to show a valid smart identity card (or via Hukoomati app) before non-emergency treatment, while emergency care remains unaffected. Breastfeeding Support: Bahrain Nursing and Midwifery Society marked World Breastfeeding Week with visits to Salmaniya Medical Complex, supporting mothers in labour and postnatal wards. Workplace Health: An ICWA summer awareness programme in Muharraq provided water and health-and-safety guidance to workers during peak heat. Animal Health Rules: The Philippines banned imports of live animals and certain animal products from FMD-hit countries including Bahrain, citing confirmed foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks. Regional Disruption Impact: Reports on the Strait of Hormuz closure say Gulf states have spent months rerouting supplies by air, pushing up costs for residents.

FMD Border Alerts: The Philippines has banned imports of live animals and animal products from seven economies after confirmed foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks, including Bahrain, with the measure covering livestock and certain animal commodities while allowing “safe” processed goods under strict conditions. Bahrain Health System Readiness: Bahrain says it is monitoring emerging infectious threats such as hantavirus, using stronger post-Covid surveillance, labs and emergency planning, and backing tighter rules for unlicensed medical practice. Diabetes Summer Care: Bahrain Diabetes Society urges people with diabetes to protect skin and feet in hot weather, warning that small cuts can worsen fast due to nerve damage and poor circulation. Smart ID for Non-Emergency Care: Government hospitals now require a valid smart identity card (or via Hukoomati app) for non-emergency treatment to speed registration and improve record accuracy. Gulf Health Cooperation: Bahrain reaffirmed support for GCC health collaboration and pharmaceutical security, highlighting unified procurement and shared disease prevention efforts. Breastfeeding Support: Bahrain Nursing and Midwifery Society marked World Breastfeeding Week with midwives and nurses visiting labour and postnatal wards at Salmaniya Medical Complex to guide new mothers. AI for Medicine Research: University of Bahrain’s BENEFIT Advanced AI & Computing Lab reports growth in medical image analysis and brain tumour diagnosis work, alongside other applied AI projects. Workforce Well-being: Bahrain Airport Services launched “Staff Welfare Program 2.0” to expand employee support, education and financial assistance. Local Healthcare Visits: Northern Municipal Council visited Amana Healthcare Bahrain to learn about services and plan community health awareness sessions.