KUWAIT CITY, Feb 9: Minister of Health Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi inaugurated the 9th Medical Education Conference for Trainee Doctors on Sunday, a key event under the Kuwait Institute for Medical Specialties’ training programs.

In his opening speech, Minister Al-Awadhi emphasized that the specialized education and training system supervised by the institute is a cornerstone of the country's health system. He stressed the critical importance of developing the human element in healthcare, alongside fostering the growth and improvement of all medical and health cadres. This, he noted, is essential to maintaining the quality of the healthcare system and its capability to respond effectively to emergencies and crises.

Dr. Al-Awadhi also expressed a strong commitment to expanding the capacity of the institute’s training programs to accommodate newly graduated doctors. These programs are based on scientific methodologies designed to achieve the goals of medical education and specialized training while being responsive to the demands of a modern healthcare system. He highlighted the importance of these programs focusing on acquiring and evaluating diverse competencies, including familiarity with quality standards and patient safety. Additionally, he emphasized the need for future doctors to understand the comprehensive and integrated nature of the health system.

The Minister further underscored the conference's focus on the psychological safety of trainees, acknowledging its significant role in shaping their professional development. He noted that the institute has successfully obtained institutional and programmatic accreditation for many of its training programs in collaboration with international bodies. This includes accreditation for emergency medicine programs, as well as programs in anesthesia and urology, recognized by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.

Speaking to reporters after the inauguration, Minister Al-Awadhi emphasized that the conference is a priority for the ministry and an integral part of its strategic plan. He expressed pride in the presence of national trainees who are receiving training in Kuwait, in accordance with internationally accredited specializations.

Dr. Maitham Hussein, chairman of the conference, also addressed the gathering. He explained that the conference would run for three days, covering a range of topics for doctors. These include lectures and discussions on key health issues, presented by program directors and heads of examination committees. One of the main themes of the conference, Dr. Hussein noted, is "How to maintain mental health and achieve well-being during the first five years of training." The event also welcomed visitors from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, as well as the Royal College of Dentists.

The conference is set to be a valuable platform for further enhancing medical education and fostering well-being for doctors in training.