Parliament Votes to Restore 24 Hour Services at North Muharraq Health Centre

Bahrain’s Council of Representatives has approved, by majority vote, a proposal calling for the reopening of the North Muharraq Health Centre on a 24 hour basis in the second constituency of Muharraq, forwarding the recommendation to the Government for consideration and implementation.

The proposal was submitted by MPs Hamad Al Doy, Abdulwahid Qarata, Bader Al Tamimi, Hisham Al Awadhi, and Dr Hisham Al Asheeri. It was reviewed by the Services Committee, which examined the growing pressure on healthcare facilities following the reduction of operating hours at the centre. 

During the debate, MP Abdulwahid Qarata delivered a key intervention, warning that the decision to limit operating hours had produced direct and measurable consequences. He said waiting times at King Hamad University Hospital had increased from an average of two to three hours to between five and seven hours, as residents were forced to seek emergency care instead of accessing local primary services. 

Qarata added that the shift towards hospital emergency departments had increased emergency expenditure and placed additional strain on the healthcare budget. He noted that while the Al Hala Health Centre in Bu Maher remains operational, access to it is difficult for many North Muharraq residents, particularly elderly patients and families without reliable transport.

The MP said the proposal reflects a clear public and constitutional demand. A community backed initiative was submitted by constituency representatives, funding was allocated within the 2026 state budget, and a public opinion survey showed strong support for restoring round the clock services at the North Muharraq Health Centre.

He also called on the Government to adopt a broader planning approach, urging the construction of new primary healthcare centres in newly developed areas rather than relocating services from established communities.

Following deliberations, MPs voted by majority to pass the proposal, reaffirming Parliament’s commitment to accessible primary healthcare and community wellbeing.