KUWAIT CITY, Sept 21: Minister of Health Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi has announced the launch of a virtual health office designed to support patients receiving treatment abroad. He described this service as a significant advancement and a unique addition to the healthcare system.

Speaking to reporters following the launch on Saturday, Minister Al-Awadhi explained that the new service aims to streamline access for patients sent for treatment, facilitate communication with those in countries without health offices, and simplify procedures with Kuwaiti embassies in those nations through effective collaboration with foreign ministries.

He emphasized that the virtual health office will help reduce financial costs for the state by minimizing the need for health offices abroad, as seen in Jordan. The minister indicated that there are ongoing discussions about potentially reducing the number of employees or closing certain offices in the future.

The program was implemented following approval from the Civil Service Council, and the ministry is working to expand the virtual offices, which will operate 24/7. Minister Al-Awadhi highlighted the ministry's focus on improving communication with patients abroad, expediting their treatment, and transitioning from a paper-based system to a digital framework as part of a well-structured plan.

He also noted that several projects will soon be introduced as part of the ministry's strategic plan, which is nearing completion, reiterating the commitment to enhancing the health system to better serve citizens.