How to Navigate the Health System in Bahrain

Bahrain's healthcare system is a combination of public and private healthcare, with both offering quality medical care. The public healthcare system is known as the Ministry of Health and provides free or low-cost medical care to Bahraini citizens. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Bahrain, however, it is not used by many foreigners. Public hospitals are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, however, the quality of care may vary.

Bahrain's Public Healthcare System

The public healthcare system in Bahrain is known as the Ministry of Health and provides free or low-cost medical care to Bahraini citizens. The Ministry of Health operates a network of public hospitals and clinics throughout the country, providing a range of medical services. The public healthcare system is open to foreigners, however, it is not used by many expats and digital nomads. Public hospitals are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, however, the quality of care may vary.

Bahrain's Private Healthcare System

In addition to the public healthcare system, Bahrain also has a private healthcare system. Private hospitals and clinics offer a higher standard of medical care than public hospitals, however, they are more expensive. Expats primarily use private hospitals, as they offer a higher standard of care and more specialized services. Private hospitals are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they offer a higher standard of care.

Bahrain's Top Hospitals

The following is a list of some of the most well-known hospitals in Bahrain:

• Bahrain Defence Force Hospital (public, Manama)
• King Hamad University Hospital (public, Manama)
• International Hospital of Bahrain (private, Manama)
• Al Salam International Hospital (private, Manama)
• Al Amal Hospital (private, Manama)
• Al Hilal Specialized Hospital (private, Manama)
• Al Kindi Specialized Hospital (private, Manama)
• Al Razi Hospital (private, Manama)
• Al Salam Specialist Hospital (private, Manama)
• Al Wafa Medical Center (private, Manama)
• American Mission Hospital (private, Manama)
• Bahrain Specialist Hospital (private, Manama)
• Cleveland Clinic Bahrain (private, Manama)
• Kanoo Medical Center (private, Manama)

Health Insurance Companies in Bahrain

The most popular private health insurers in Bahrain are Bupa, MedGulf, and Takaful. These companies provide health insurance plans for individuals and families, as well as corporate health insurance plans. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, rather than specialized expat health insurance providers.

Insider Tips from Expats in Bahrain: How to Navigate the Health System

"In Bahrain, medical services are of a high standard, with a range of both public and private healthcare facilities available. The public healthcare system is free for Bahraini citizens, and provides a range of services including general practice, specialist care, and emergency services. Private healthcare facilities offer a more comprehensive range of services, including advanced medical treatments and specialist care. Bahrain also has a number of international hospitals, which offer a range of services to both local and international patients," commented one member living in Bahrain.

"In Bahrain, healthcare services are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health and provides a range of services, including primary care, specialist care, and hospital services. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with modern facilities and well-trained staff. Foreign residents in Bahrain have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Bahrain can use the public healthcare system by registering with the Ministry of Health and obtaining a health card. This card allows them to access public healthcare services at a reduced cost," commented one member living in Bahrain.