Kuwait is taking significant strides in enhancing its healthcare infrastructure, with the Minister of Health, Dr Ahmad Al-Awadhi, affirming that it is a cornerstone of the national health renaissance and sustainable development. This development is evident in the country’s expanding network of primary healthcare centers, which are crucial in delivering comprehensive health services to the population. The recent 7th Kuwait Primary Healthcare Conference, held under the theme “Care for All: A Unified Approach to Primary Healthcare,” highlighted the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure.
## Expanding Primary Healthcare Centers
The number of primary healthcare centers in Kuwait has reached 118, with plans to continue developing modern facilities, particularly in new residential areas. The Ministry is focusing on Jahra, Ahmadi, and Farwaniya governorates to accommodate population growth and ensure high-quality healthcare services. Three health centers are currently undergoing comprehensive renovation and construction, while three new centers are set to open soon, including Jaber Al-Ahmad Health Center, West Abdullah Al-Mubarak Health Center, and Kabd Health Center. This expansion demonstrates the government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure and providing accessible healthcare services to the population.
### Modernizing Healthcare Facilities
Many primary healthcare centers have been equipped with modern emergency departments operating according to international medical standards. Notably, Sabah Al-Ahmad Center and Al-Mutlaa N10 Center now feature CT scanners, enhancing coverage and access for residents. The Ministry is also investing in training and qualifying medical personnel to support the expanding healthcare infrastructure. The number of physicians in primary care centers has reached 1,887, including 472 graduates of the Kuwaiti Board of Family Medicine, with plans to increase this number to approximately 900 by 2030.
## Enhancing Healthcare Services
The primary healthcare centers have recorded more than 16 million visits this year, reflecting the public’s confidence in Kuwait’s healthcare system. The Ministry has expanded primary healthcare services and specialized clinics in recent years, with chronic disease clinics increasing to 133, mental health clinics to 74, diabetes clinics to 215, and retinal examination clinics to 68, equipped with artificial intelligence technologies. Additional services include 95 diabetic foot clinics, 100 well-child and adolescent clinics, and 64 clinics for the elderly. This expansion is supported by continuous investment in training and qualifying medical personnel.
### Strengthening Professional Collaboration
The 7th Kuwait Primary Healthcare Conference emphasized the importance of professional collaboration among healthcare practitioners. The conference featured expert-led workshops and specialized sessions, providing a platform for specialists and experts to share their knowledge and experiences. Dr Dina Al-Dhaib, Director of the Central Department of Primary Healthcare and Head of the Conference, highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to developing a scientific program that aligns with modern medical advancements.
Kuwait’s healthcare infrastructure is undergoing significant development, driven by the government’s commitment to enhancing primary healthcare services and expanding the network of healthcare centers. With a focus on modernizing healthcare facilities and strengthening professional collaboration, the country is poised to achieve a national health renaissance and sustainable development. As Kuwait continues to invest in its healthcare infrastructure, it is likely to become a model for other countries in the region, providing high-quality and accessible healthcare services to its population. The Ministry’s efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure are expected to have a positive impact on the overall health and well-being of the population, and it is essential for stakeholders to continue working together to achieve this goal.
