Push Brings Care : MP-backed plan now activated

Daily Tribune

14-07-2025

TDT | Manama
Access to emergency care for sickle cell anaemia patients in Bahrain has entered a new phase, with the Government Hospitals Administration launching 24-hour operations at the Hereditary Blood Disorders Centre (HBDC) in Salmaniya Medical Complex.
The move follows a strong parliamentary call earlier this year to provide faster and more specialised care for patients facing unpredictable pain crises.
On January 22nd, Parliament approved a proposal by Dr Maryam Al Dhaen to create a separate emergency pathway with dedicated staff for sickle cell cases.
Care on Call
Dr Maryam Athbi Al Jalahma, CEO of Government Hospitals, said the round-the-clock service will improve emergency response times, cut down on waiting periods, and ensure high-quality, efficient care that meets patient needs.
'This reflects our commitment to providing integrated, sustainable healthcare,' she said.
HBDC has been the central point for treating hereditary blood disorders, yet patients have long struggled with delays during off-hours. The expansion to 24/7 care directly addresses these gaps.
Parliamentary Push
During the parliamentary session in January, Dr Al Dhaen emphasised that sickle cell patients face sudden, severe attacks that require immediate medical response.
'Sickle cell patients can be struck by intense attacks at any moment. The sooner they get the right care, the better their chances,' she said.
She anchored her proposal in Article 8 of Bahrain's Constitution, which affirms the right of every citizen to healthcare.
The plan also calls for more accurate genetic testing, better screening measures, and expanded use of preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) to prevent future cases.
Support and Impact
Zakaria Ibrahim Al Kazem, Chairman of the Bahrain Sickle Cell Society, welcomed the announcement and described it as a 'significant advance in healthcare standards.' He said the move demonstrated continued support for those affected by hereditary conditions.
With sickle cell anaemia among the most common inherited disorders in the Kingdom, the updated care model is expected to reduce pressure on emergency services and improve patient outcomes.
Part of Bigger Shift
Earlier this year, Bahrain made headlines as the first country in the region to administer Casgevy, a gene therapy for sickle cell treatment that uses CRISPR technology.
Alongside the launch of 24-hour care, the development reflects a growing emphasis on both innovation and access.
Authorities say both preventive and medical strategies are needed to protect public health and manage long-term costs.
Bahrain's sickle cell community may now have a stronger system to depend on, whether day or night.