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.
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