Bahrain’s successful Covid-19 proactive approach and policies were highlighted yesterday by top medical professionals at a major forum.
They praised the country and how it successfully dealt with the pandemic during what were unprecedented times.
The C3 Bahrain ‘Davos of Healthcare’ summit, kicked off yesterday at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa, Manama with the theme ‘The Evolution of Global Healthcare.’
The two-day event, being hosted by the American Mission Hospital (AMH), will discuss trends in the medical field and look at Bahrain’s model during the Covid-19 pandemic.
AMH corporate chief executive and chief medical officer Dr George Cheriyan welcomed speakers and delegates, including Supreme Council for Health chairman Lieutenant General Dr Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Health Minister Dr Jalila Al Sayyed, and C3 Summit founder Ransel Potter.
“Bahrain has a very robust national healthcare system, evidenced by how the kingdom navigated the Covid-19 pandemic successfully,” said Dr Cheriyan at the event’s opening address.
“Despite that, it is important to not rest on our laurels and ensure there is sufficient preparation in place in case another pandemic breaks out.
“Rising healthcare costs due to challenges like climate change, conflicts and shortage of medical professionals need to be addressed in order to ensure that medical services remain accessible for everyone.
“The summit is the perfect place for leaders of the healthcare industry in Bahrain and abroad to gather and share their knowledge and the latest advances in medicine, as well as to discuss on how we can solve some of these challenges.”
Lt Gen Dr Shaikh Mohammed hailed the AMH for successfully organising the event, believing it can help Bahrain’s healthcare system grow and be ready for the next few years. “Healthcare, not just in Bahrain but also around the world, is evolving every single day,” he said. “It has become its own modern ecosystem and has to be managed as such.
“We need to be sure that not only are we ready in case another pandemic breaks out but also to prioritise patient safety while keeping up the quality of healthcare that is expected of us.
“I am encouraging all participants to discuss challenges faced and to come up with potential solutions that can benefit not just us but patients around the world.”
At the event, Mr Potter heaped praise on His Majesty King Hamad and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for their vision and dedication during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“The summit holds a special significance for Bahrain, as evidenced by the awards bestowed upon its leaders,” he said.
“In 2016, His Majesty King Hamad received the C3 Lifetime Achievement Award, while in 2021, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, was honoured with the C3 Leadership Award for Bahrain’s exemplary management of the Covid-19 pandemic, described as a ‘model of excellence’.
“It is very important for countries to strive for excellence in healthcare like Bahrain does.
“Since its inception in 2012, with former American President Bill Clinton as the inaugural keynote speaker, C3 has emphasised three core principles – community, collaboration and commerce.
“I’m happy to say Bahrain’s healthcare system embodies all three core principles and will continue to be a model of excellence.”
Yesterday’s event featured a variety of talks, including talks on a paradigm shift in healthcare in Bahrain, evolution of government policies, cybersecurity in healthcare, and innovation as well as sustainability on healthcare systems.
It concludes today with discussions on topics such as smart hospitals, women in global healthcare, the role of artificial intelligence and the likely impact of climate change.
Send us your company’s news today and they could be featured on ABC’s Community News tommorow.
