Bahrain Health Insurance

The Kingdom of Bahrain is an island nation located in the Persian Gulf, along the east coast of Saudi Arabia. It is a small country of just 760 square kilometers in size and it has an approximate population of 1.2 million people, of which 15 percent are non-nationals or expatriates. Bahrain is an archipelago consisting of 33 islands with Bahrain Island being the largest and it is also where the capital city Manama is located. Bahrain is governed as a constitutional monarchy and is ruled by the Al-Khalifa family. Following the discovery of petroleum in 1932, Bahrain has modernized and developed at a rapid pace. Revenues from the sale of oil helped establish strong economic growth until 1994 when incomes began to decrease as the oil fields became dry. The government then began to diversify the economy and it expanded into banking, heavy industry and tourism. Bahrain is now the main banking hub within the Persian Gulf region and according to the Wall Street Journal’s 2011 Global Index of Economic Freedom; Bahrain ranked first in the Middle East and North Africa category.

Bahrain Health Care and Insurance

Health care is seen by the Bahraini authorities as an integral part of the country’s social fabric. Considerable funding has been allocated towards creating a modern and well equipped health care system which adequately serves all citizens and residents of Bahrain. There is no national health insurance system in place as the government guarantees public health services free of charge to citizens of Bahrain, with the exception of emergency services. Non-nationals who are employed with a Bahraini company are entitled to access public health facilities although part of the cost of treatment must be met by the individual. All nationals, including Bahraini citizens, must pay for any emergency services received. Expatriates, tourists and other non-nationals living in Bahrain are not entitled to free public health services and are required to pay in cash for any treatment received. It is therefore advisable to purchase an international Bahrain health insurance plan which will cover you for the duration of your time in the country.

There are four full services and five maternity hospitals within the public health sector, supplemented by three private sector hospitals. The hospital network is supported by approximately 20 state run health clinics and a large number of private clinics. A wide range of services are available at both public and private facilities and with an abundance of health facilities for what is a relatively small population, waiting times are relatively short. Health personnel are trained to international standards and many can speak both English and Arabic, particularly at private facilities. The Bahrain Specialist Hospital, American Mission Hospital and the International Hospital of Bahrain are the country’s top three health facilities. Private hospitals and clinics are capable of providing a more comfortable stay, although at a higher cost, and in most cases an individual will be accommodated in a private room which will be furnished to a high standard.

Bahrain Travel Insurance Concerns

The authorities in Bahrain have announced their intention to make possession of a health insurance policy compulsory for all expatriates and non-nationals wishing to work in the country by 2013. A number of issues need to be resolved prior to the introduction of mandatory medical insurance but given the high costs associated with health care in Bahrain for expatriates and foreign nationals, expatriates relocating to the Gulf state are advised to purchase international Bahrain health insurance prior to their arrival in the country.

Bahrain’s climate is typical of the region. Summers are hot and dry, winters are mild and rainfall is irregular and minimal throughout the year. Temperatures in July and August have been known to exceed 40 degrees Celsius while in winter the daily temperature rarely drops below 15 degrees Celsius. Bahrain’s terrain is quite flat and sand storms are frequent which can cause respiratory and eyesight problems. Sunstroke and dehydration are a primary concern during the hot summer months, particularly for those who partake in outdoor activities. Consultations with a travel health specialist are advised for expatriates and tourists visiting Bahrain or the region for the first time. A number of diseases such as schistosomiasis, West Nile virus, cutaneous leishmaniasis and visceral leishmaniasis are common to the Middle East and precautions against insect bites should be adopted. The mains water supply is not safe for consumption and bottled water should be used at all times.

Protests against the Bahraini authorities that began in the spring of 2011 have now largely abated although a visible presence of the security forces remains on most highways and on the main transportation routes around the country. The situation remains tense and the risk of a further outbreak of violence is high. Expatriates and travelers should avoid public gatherings, demonstrations and protests as they have the potential to turn violent. Crime levels are generally low although some opportunistic street crime does occur, particularly near markets and shops frequented by tourists. Bahrain is an Islamic country and local customs and traditions should be respected at all times.

Bahrain Expat Health Insurance

Health facilities in Bahrain are of a very high standard and expatriates relocating to the country will have few concerns with regard to health care. Public and private facilities can offer a wide range of treatments and waiting times are virtually non-existent. Travelers, non-nationals and expatriates are required to pay in cash for any treatment received. Medical costs in Bahrain, particularly those at private facilities, can be expensive and as a result purchasing an international Bahrain health insurance policy is strongly recommended. Expat Medical Insurance can advise you and your family on the product and policies that are best suited to your particular needs. Policies can be tailored to include specific provisions and benefits. To receive a free quotation, information on Bahrain health insurance or information on global health insurance policies, please contact one of our advisors today.