KUWAIT CITY, Jan 16: Dr. Abdullah Al-Fars, Assistant Undersecretary for Medical Support Services at the Ministry of Health, reaffirmed the ministry's strong commitment to advancing the medical sector, enhancing the efficiency of medical personnel, and improving the quality of healthcare services in Kuwait.

In his opening speech at the annual Kuwait Orthopedic Surgery Conference, which he delivered on behalf of the Minister of Health, Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi, Dr. Al-Fars emphasized the ministry's dedication to bringing together doctors and medical professors specializing in orthopedic surgery. The goal is to allow them to stay updated on the latest advancements in diagnosis and treatment, particularly in specialized surgeries.

He further highlighted the ministry's continuous support for medical education programs in various specialties by hosting international experts and surgeons. These initiatives are expected to positively influence the development of healthcare services.

Dr. Al-Fars noted that the workshops accompanying the conference provide a valuable opportunity for Kuwaiti and local doctors to learn about the latest technologies and devices used in surgical procedures. As part of its efforts to improve orthopedic surgery departments, the ministry has expanded these departments in hospitals to include all sub-specialties. The expansion includes staffing them with specialists trained in Kuwaiti board programs and international fellowships. Furthermore, robotic surgery techniques have been introduced at Jaber Al-Ahmad Hospital and Farwaniya Hospital, with plans to expand this technology to other hospitals across Kuwait.

He also mentioned the approval of three new departments as additional training institutes for Kuwaiti board doctors. The opening of the orthopedic surgery department at Jaber Al-Ahmad General Hospital in 2022, he noted, has helped reduce patient waiting lists while providing state-of-the-art medical equipment to support sub-specialties in various departments.

Dr. Al-Fars reiterated that the ministry continues to make diligent efforts to enhance healthcare services through ongoing education and training programs for doctors in various specialties. This is part of the ministry's broader goal of achieving significant improvements in the quality of medical services provided to both citizens and residents.

Meanwhile, Dr. Awad Al-Mutairi, the conference chairman, emphasized the importance of organizing scientific conferences and workshops to keep pace with the rapid progress in medical sciences. He pointed out that such events have a direct impact on the quality of medical services, particularly in surgical specialties that improve the quality of life, such as orthopedic surgery.

Dr. Al-Mutairi highlighted that the three-day conference will feature more than 54 scientific lectures and a scientific research exhibition. Participants will also earn at least 17 hours of accredited medical training by the end of the conference.

Additionally, he announced the launch of the Palestine Committee campaign, affiliated with the Kuwait Medical Association. This campaign coordinates local and international efforts aimed at rebuilding and supporting the healthcare sector in Gaza.

Dr. Al-Mutairi also noted the significant advancements and expansions in orthopedic surgery departments across various hospitals in the past two years. These improvements have led to greater patient satisfaction and reduced waiting times for surgical interventions.