KUWAIT CITY, Sept 9: The implementation of a new electronic system for sick leave for government employees has proven to be a successful initiative by the Ministry of Health, leading to significant improvements in productivity and a reduction in visits to primary healthcare centers. According to recent data, the Ministry's efforts have yielded positive results since the system's launch, aligning with the goals of Civil Service Council Resolution No. 29 of 2023, which amended the rules and provisions of sick leave.

The new system, available through the Ministry of Health app and the 'Sahel' app, allows employees to obtain sick leave electronically. This streamlined process has not only increased productivity within health facilities but also decreased the number of visits to primary care centers. By the end of March 2024, the system demonstrated its effectiveness, and this trend continued into the second quarter of the year.

Statistics reveal that from October 2023 to June 2024, the total number of visits to primary care centers dropped by 2,095,797 compared to the same period in the previous year. This reduction averages out to 232,644 fewer visits per month, marking a significant shift in the management of health resources.

Additionally, the average number of visits to each primary care center saw a decrease of over 2,000 visits per month, reflecting a positive change in the efficiency of medical services. In the second quarter of 2024, the number of visits to primary care centers dropped by 17.7% compared to the same period in 2023. Between April and June 2024, a total of 2,802,755 visits were recorded, compared to 3,404,451 visits during the same period in the previous year.

The data also showed a decline in the number of unnecessary prescriptions and medications dispensed, further contributing to enhanced productivity and reduced costs. This decline can be attributed to fewer unnecessary visits to healthcare facilities.

The electronic system, which currently issues one-day sick leaves, has been well-received by users for its convenience and efficiency. Employees can request and receive approval for sick leave via the app, eliminating the need to visit health centers for short-term leave, saving both time and effort.

Evaluations have confirmed that medical staff are satisfied with the new system, as it has saved over 50,000 working hours per month. These hours, which were previously spent processing sick leave requests, are now being redirected to provide higher-quality care to patients, thereby improving the overall quality of health services.

Six steps to apply for electronic sick leave:

2. Log in to the Ministry of Health platform.

3. Select the "Sick Leave" service.

4. Click on "Electronic Sick Leave Request.

5. Enter the required data and submit the application.

6. Receive an electronic copy of the sick leave, with the option to download or print it.

Important notes:

2. It is not possible to request sick leave for three consecutive days in a single application.

3. This process can be repeated up to three times per month, with a maximum of 3 days per month and 15 days per year.

4. After using all available electronic sick leave days, further applications must be submitted in person at health centers.

Comparison of visits: