Digital Health Integration

Digital health integration represents a pivotal advancement in the Kingdom of Bahrain’s commitment to providing accessible, high-quality healthcare for all. By leveraging innovative digital tools, Bahrain aims to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being, aligning national strategies with global health targets. The seamless adoption of technology within the health sector is transforming patient care, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, and ensuring that every citizen and resident benefits from efficient, safe, and comprehensive health services.

I-SEHA: The National Health Information System

Central to this transformation is the National Health Information System (I-SEHA), a landmark project led by the Ministry of Health. Protected in the constitution, the right to decent and free healthcare is reinforced by I-SEHA, which underpins a modern, patient-centric healthcare ecosystem. The system provides healthcare professionals with real-time access to patient records and medical histories through its electronic health record (EHR) platform. This empowers healthcare providers to deliver informed, timely, and accurate care while enabling patients to securely manage and review their own health information online.

Digital Expansion During COVID-19

Bahrain’s swift and effective response to the COVID-19 pandemic marked a milestone in digital health integration. Through the launch of the BeAware mobile app and the Sehati portal, the government unified key stakeholders under a cohesive digital health framework. These platforms enabled remote consultations, facilitated access to a broad spectrum of medical eServices, and introduced chatbots to support patient inquiries and medical advice.

The Sehati mobile app, in particular, emerged as an essential channel for scheduling appointments, accessing medical results, and securing athletic fitness certificates, further enhancing public health access and convenience.

National Health Insurance Program (Sehati)

The Supreme Council of Health initiated the National Health Insurance Program (Sehati) under the National Health Plan 2016–2025. This comprehensive program is designed to ensure high-quality healthcare delivery, optimize resource allocation, and guarantee patients’ rights, including the freedom to choose service providers. By fostering competition between public and private sectors, Sehati enhances the quality and scope of services available to all residents of Bahrain.

Digital Health Integration System (DHIS)

The Bahrain Digital Health Integration aims to create a unified platform for health data, facilitating seamless data sharing among healthcare providers and government entities. This integration will yield several benefits:

• Enhanced Healthcare Delivery: Improved data sharing accelerates diagnosis and treatment.
• Operational Efficiency: Reduces data entry redundancy, streamlining healthcare processes.
• Cost Optimization: Maximizes resource utilization, resulting in substantial cost savings.

Pre-Employment Health Checkup: Safeguarding Public Health

Bahrain’s commitment to public health extends to safeguarding the workforce through mandatory pre-employment health check-up. This collaborative public-private initiative ensures early detection of health risks and prevents the spread of infectious diseases in workplaces. Key requirements include:

• Mandatory health screenings for all new employees.
• Comprehensive testing for HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, syphilis, and tuberculosis.
• Employer coverage of all screening costs.
• Certification by qualified medical practitioners.
• Submission of results to the Ministry of Health for official approval.

Health in Your Hands: Bahrain’s Gateway to Public Healthcare Services

The digital transformation of Bahrain’s health sector empowers citizens and residents through innovative eServices, aligning with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. The Ministry of Health’s platforms enable individuals to:

• Schedule medical appointments electronically, including evening appointments via the Sehati app.
• Access immunization and vaccination records online.
• Benefit from chronic disease medicine home delivery services and other specialized eServices.
• Engage with medical professionals through remote consultations and digital communication channels.

Licensing Health with Integrity: NHRA’s Digital Oversight Platform

Ensuring quality and integrity in healthcare, the National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA) has embraced digital oversight platforms. The Ministry of Health’s call center and related eServices play a critical role in raising the standard of care and supporting ongoing ICT governance efforts.

Public Health in Action: Ministry of Health eServices

Government hospitals and health centers, such as King Hamad University Hospital, continue to expand digital offerings via the Sehati app, including booking services and medicine delivery. These digital advancements are reflected in increased app usage and user engagement, demonstrating the effectiveness of Bahrain’s eHealth pathway.

Recognition and Awards

The excellence of Bahrain’s digital health initiatives is widely recognized. The Sehati app was awarded first place in the ‘Health & Wellbeing’ category at the Bahrain Digital Content Award 2023. This achievement reflects the collective dedication of the Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) and its partners to advancing digital healthcare for all.

Strategic Vision: Partnerships and Innovation

Bahrain’s leadership in digital health integration is further strengthened by its focus on strategic partnerships, investment in innovation, and commitment to building sustainable infrastructure. Key initiatives such as the national health insurance scheme, the central IT health database, and collaborative projects with international organizations support the Kingdom’s pursuit of SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.