A group of Bahraini lawmakers, led by MP Basma Mubarak, has put forth a new proposal aimed at improving the care and support provided to sickle cell patients in Bahrain. The proposed legislation seeks to establish a comprehensive law dedicated to addressing the various needs of sickle cell patients, ensuring their rights and protection against discrimination. The proposed law emphasizes the importance of integrated services for sickle cell patients, covering medical, social, educational, and other essential sectors.
One significant provision of the proposed law is the granting of special leave with full pay to pregnant female sickle cell patients who require medical attention. This provision aims to alleviate the financial burden on these patients and ensure they can focus on their health without worrying about lost income. Additionally, the proposed law suggests providing a monthly allowance of at least 100 Bahraini dinars to individuals diagnosed with sickle cell disease by a medical committee, offering them financial support beyond any other benefits they may receive under existing laws.
The proposed law also includes measures to exempt sickle cell patients from fees and taxes on necessary equipment, such as rehabilitation, medical, educational, and compensatory devices. It outlines the establishment of specialized centers and institutes for rehabilitation, along with care facilities and workshops to cater to the specific needs of sickle cell patients. These initiatives aim to enhance the quality of life for sickle cell patients and provide them with the support they need to thrive.
Furthermore, the proposed law addresses employment opportunities for sickle cell patients. It requires larger employers to hire a minimum of 2% of their workforce from among rehabilitated sickle cell patients registered with the Ministry of Labour. Employers are also encouraged to hire sickle cell patients beyond this quota, provided they meet the requirements outlined in the law. The legislation also specifies exemptions for sickle cell patients from certain health requirements and exam mandates for certain jobs, ensuring equal opportunities in the workplace.
In cases where a sickle cell patient sustains an injury that impacts their ability to perform their previous job, the proposed law obligates the employer to offer them a suitable alternative position with comparable or higher pay. This provision aims to protect the rights of workers with disabilities and guarantee they are not unfairly disadvantaged in their employment. Overall, the proposed law highlights the importance of comprehensive care and support for sickle cell patients, emphasizing their well-being and rights in various aspects of life.
In summary, the proposed law put forth by Bahraini lawmakers, including MP Basma Mubarak, aims to provide comprehensive care and support for sickle cell patients in Bahrain. The legislation addresses various needs of sickle cell patients, from medical services to employment opportunities, highlighting the importance of integrated and continuous support across different sectors. The proposed law includes provisions for special leave, financial allowances, and exemptions from fees and taxes, as well as measures to establish specialized care facilities and rehabilitation centers for sickle cell patients. Additionally, the law emphasizes equal employment opportunities for sickle cell patients and mandates support for workers with disabilities resulting from their health condition. Overall, the proposed law seeks to enhance the quality of life and protect the rights of sickle cell patients in Bahrain, promoting their well-being and inclusion in society.
