Lieutenant General Dr. Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Supreme Council of Health (SCH), confirmed that preparations are complete for the launch of the National Health Insurance Programme for Residents on Saturday, October 31, 2026, marking an important step in the development of the Kingdom of Bahrain's healthcare system and strengthening cooperation between the public and private sectors.
The SCH Chairman explained that the programme aims to regulate residents' access to healthcare through a comprehensive insurance framework and improve the efficiency of healthcare resources.
He emphasised that the introduction of the programme will not affect healthcare services provided to Bahraini citizens, reiterating the continued commitment to improving the quality and efficiency of these services.
The programme will provide eligible residents with mandatory health insurance covering primary and secondary healthcare, emergency treatment and accidents, in accordance with approved benefits and regulations. Additional insurance packages will also be available to beneficiaries and employers seeking wider coverage.
The SCH Chairman noted that the programme will cover residents in accordance with the approved categories and classifications, excluding domestic workers, residents employed by government entities and their dependants.
He added that linking insurance coverage to the issuance and renewal of work and residence permits will help ensure continuity of coverage, regulate access to healthcare services and clarify the rights and responsibilities of all parties concerned.
The SCH Chairman concluded by emphasising the importance of cooperation between government entities and the private sector in ensuring the successful implementation of the programme, supporting the continued development, efficiency and sustainability of Bahrain's healthcare system.