Latest news with #LawNo.70of2020
Arab Times
08-07-2025
- Health
- Arab Times
Health Ministry clarifies dentist availability amid viral video allegations
KUWAIT CITY, July 8: The Ministry of Health has issued an official statement clarifying the circumstances surrounding a video clip that circulated on social media, alleging the absence of dentists at the South Firdous Health Center during the evening of an official holiday. The Ministry confirmed that dental duty services are, in fact, provided during public holidays at nine primary healthcare centers across the Farwaniya Governorate. These centers operate in two shifts — a morning shift from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM and an evening shift from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM — with South Firdous Health Center included among the designated facilities. Additionally, emergency dental services remain available throughout the week until 6:00 AM at the Farwaniya Specialized Dental Center, serving both adults and children. According to official records, the individual referenced in the video had arrived after the clinic's working hours had concluded at 9:00 PM. The Ministry noted that the claim of absent doctors is therefore inaccurate. The nurse seen in the footage was present in accordance with clinic closure procedures and infection control protocols. The Ministry also addressed a legal concern raised by the incident, emphasizing that the recording and publishing of a healthcare staff member without consent constitutes a breach of Article 21 of Law No. 70 of 2020, which prohibits unauthorized filming within healthcare institutions. The Ministry underscored that such actions are unacceptable and that it reserves the right to pursue legal action. In closing, the Ministry reiterated its commitment to transparency and service improvement, encouraging members of the public to direct any concerns or feedback through its official communication channels. 'We remain dedicated to enhancing our healthcare services and ensuring the satisfaction of all patients,' the Ministry stated.
Arab Times
26-05-2025
- Health
- Arab Times
Kuwait shuts down 5 medical facilities, refers 23 to authority for violations
KUWAIT CITY, May 26: The Minister of Health, Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi, has taken decisive action by referring 23 health facilities to the Medical Liability Authority for violating established regulations related to advertising and medical practices. Additionally, five facilities have been ordered to close due to actions that compromise patient safety. According to a statement from the Ministry of Health on Monday, the affected establishments include hospitals, medical centers, clinics, and laboratories. The measures were implemented following inspections by specialized teams, which uncovered violations related to medical advertisements. These advertisements were found to be in direct conflict with Ministerial Resolution No. 87 of 2023, which regulates advertising in the private medical sector. The ministry's statement revealed that some advertisements promoted practices that lacked scientific approval, while others were deemed to have a commercial focus that went against the ethical principles of the medical profession. These discrepancies were also found to contravene the provisions of Law No. 70 of 2020, which regulates the practice of medicine and allied professions, patients' rights, and health facilities. As a result, the ministry has taken legal action against the offending facilities. It emphasized that these measures are part of its ongoing efforts to ensure that medical practices align with ethical standards and the law, thus safeguarding patient welfare. The Ministry of Health stressed its commitment to maintaining strict oversight of the private health sector, with a focus on improving performance and ensuring compliance with professional standards and health legislation. It reiterated that the safety of patients and the quality of healthcare services remain top priorities, and that it will continue to enforce regulations rigorously to protect public health and maintain a safe, high-quality healthcare environment. The ministry's statement concludes with a reaffirmation of its determination to take firm action to preserve the integrity of the healthcare system and ensure the well-being of the population.
Arab Times
24-04-2025
- Health
- Arab Times
Kuwait issues new bylaw to regulate private mental health facilities
KUWAIT CITY, April 24: On Wednesday, Minister of Health Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi issued Ministerial Resolution No. 79 of 2025, approving a new bylaw that governs the licensing of units and complexes offering psychological treatment and consultation services. In its announcement, the Ministry of Health stated that the bylaw aligns with ongoing efforts to raise the quality of psychological care services within the private healthcare sector, while also enhancing safety standards and promoting sound professional practices. Facility requirements: Facilities providing psychological treatment and consultation services are required to meet a comprehensive set of technical and professional standards. The location of these units and complexes must be suitable and easily accessible to ensure convenience for patients. Additionally, each facility must be equipped with treatment rooms that adhere to approved technical specifications. Secure storage areas must also be allocated for patient records to guarantee the privacy and confidentiality of sensitive information. Professional qualifications: All healthcare practitioners working in these facilities must hold valid professional licenses issued by the appropriate regulatory authorities. Moreover, each facility must employ at least one psychotherapist who holds a doctoral degree. In addition to this, certified specialists must be available in fields such as psychotherapy, applied behavioral analysis, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and other related specialties to ensure comprehensive patient care. Ethical and legal compliance: Practitioners are required to comply with the ethical standards stipulated in Law No. 70 of 2020. The bylaw also enforces existing technical regulations governing both health facilities and their practitioners. Together, these elements establish a clear and structured legal framework for the proper oversight and governance of psychological care units. Electronic data management: To enhance the security and management of patient information, all facilities must implement an approved electronic system for documenting patient data. This system is designed to protect the privacy and confidentiality of patient records, while also allowing effective oversight and follow-up by the relevant regulatory authorities within the established legal framework. This regulatory move represents a substantial step toward reinforcing governance and professional oversight in the field of mental health. It is designed to ensure a safe and integrated therapeutic environment, safeguard patient rights, and elevate the standards of mental health care in the private sector to internationally recognized scientific and professional benchmarks.
