KUWAIT CITY, May 23: Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health Affairs at the Ministry of Health Dr Qais Al-Duwairi was recently quoted as saying the ministry is committed to the criteria and stipulations allotted by GCC Union of Medical Centers, reports Al-Seyassah daily.

According to reliable sources the ministry wants to change the center which examines prospective Egyptians wishing to work in Kuwait because of reported violations committed by these centers in Cairo, Egypt. It has been reported ‘unfit’ candidates are issued medically ‘fit’ certificates for a sum of money.
The sources warned of such illegal manipulations committed by such centers.

In another development, the undersecretary Dr Ibrahim Al-Abdulhadi announced the Cancer Care Center affiliated to Kuwait Center for Controlling Cancer needs physicians specializing in abdominal section and health care physicians.

Meanwhile, the sources affirmed the ministry is rearranging documents to be submitted to the Health Committee of the National Assembly for consideration prior to establishing a national authority for healthcare.

And, Health Minister Dr Ali Al-Obeidi has allegedly referred two of the most qualified employees in his ministry for retirement as they turned 60 years old a few months ago, reports Al-Jarida daily quoting sources.

Sources revealed the decision has drawn negative reactions and some parties have accused the minister of discriminating between the employees. Sources said there are around 200 expatriate doctors and officials above 65 years old in the ministry, while their Kuwaiti counterparts total 100, including 33 citizens in various leadership posts; but none of them have been referred for retirement. Sources added the two employees have not received their privileges, asserting these workers should not be referred for retirement unless they are granted their full rights.

In another development, sources disclosed the ministry intends to restructure the Expatriates Examination Center in Cairo due to the rising number of complaints filed against some of its workers.
 who purportedly committed several violations. Sources confirmed the minister has sent a delegation to Cairo to conduct a thorough investigation.