KUWAIT: The Ministry of Health has announced the approval of a ministerial decision regarding the updated executive regulation of Law No. 31 of 2008, which mandates medical examinations for individuals wishing to marry. This move is part of ongoing efforts to modernize health legislation, safeguard public health, ensure a healthy marital life, and align procedures with international medical standards.

A significant change introduced in the updated regulation is the expansion of the medical examination scope to include all documented marriage contracts in Kuwait—whether both parties are Kuwaiti, one is Kuwaiti, or neither are Kuwaiti. Additionally, digital applications will now be utilized to streamline some aspects of the pre-marriage medical examination process. Previously the test was only obligatory for Kuwaitis.

The ministry has called upon all relevant authorities to ensure compliance with the new regulations, which will take effect on April 1, 2025, following its publication in the official gazette. This update is part of the ministry’s continued commitment to enhancing the quality of health services, protecting public health, and reducing the incidence of genetic and infectious diseases within the community.

In other health news, Dr Abdullah Al-Sanad, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, announced that the pediatric department at Al-Adan Hospital will begin receiving patients at the new Maternity and Children Hospital starting Wednesday. This move is part of the ministry’s efforts to improve healthcare services and make it easier for families to access specialized medical care.

The new hospital is equipped with 14 floors, nine specialized wards, nine operating rooms, two delivery rooms with 20 beds each, and one of the largest fertility units in Kuwait. The hospital is fully equipped with modern technologies, devices, and surgical tools to ensure the health of women and children. — KUNA