The proposal for a constitutional amendment to provide free healthcare services in Bahrain is set to be discussed by Members of Parliament in the upcoming session. The amendment seeks to replace Article 8(a) of the Constitution, which guarantees every citizen the right to free healthcare and obligates the state to care for public health by establishing hospitals and health institutions. The proposed change aims to ensure that all citizens have access to comprehensive healthcare coverage without financial barriers to treatment.
The explanatory memorandum accompanying the proposal emphasizes that the “right to health” is a fundamental right that places a positive obligation on the state to offer a complete range of necessary and quality health services, including health promotion, prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and care. This amendment is viewed as a necessary step to ensure that Bahraini citizens have access to free healthcare, benefiting both individuals and the community as a whole.
Providing free healthcare services is seen as essential for creating a suitable health environment that offers preventive, educational, and curative services to promote the overall health and well-being of citizens. Additionally, by ensuring that citizens have access to free treatment for simple health issues throughout their lives, the state can ease the burden of caring for the elderly and contribute to long-term economic development.
The provision of free healthcare services is expected to help protect and stabilize the social and economic conditions of Bahraini families, acting as a cornerstone for sustainable economic growth. By guaranteeing access to healthcare without financial barriers, the proposed amendment aims to improve the health outcomes of citizens and enhance the overall quality of life in Bahrain.
The proposal for free healthcare services in Bahrain reflects a commitment to upholding the constitutional rights of citizens and ensuring that healthcare is accessible to all. By making healthcare services free of charge, the state can fulfill its duty to care for public health and promote the well-being of the population, ultimately contributing to the long-term prosperity and stability of Bahrain’s society.
