Gov’t prepares new regulation to monitor standards in health sector 

Responding to concerns about private hospitals allegedly referring patients to public hospitals after collecting fees when cases become critical, Dr. Samateh described the issue as an urgent concern for his ministry. He said that before the current administration came to power, some private hospitals operated without proper licensing and oversight. According to him, the government introduced stricter monitoring measures to ensure facilities meet required standards before they begin operations. "We assess their qualifications, infrastructure and standards before granting permission to operate," he said. The minister revealed that the proposed Health Facility Regulatory Authority Bill will establish a national body responsible for regulating all health facilities, both public and private. Under the proposed law, facilities that fail to meet required standards could face closure. "The bill will soon be taken to Cabinet and, once approved, will be submitted to Parliament for enactment," Dr. Samateh said. He also disclosed plans for an Allied Health Licensing Bill, which will regulate laboratories, physiotherapy units and other allied health services to improve patient safety and healthcare quality. Beyond hospitals, the ministry is working with relevant authorities to regulate businesses whose operations have public health implications, including barbering salons, manicure and pedicure centres, spas and gyms. Dr. Samateh stressed that poor hygiene and unsafe practices in such establishments could pose serious health risks to the population. (This is a sponsored article)