In a changing global economy, skyrocketing medical costs have become a growing concern for many patients and their families. Medical treatments — especially for chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease — have become an unbearable financial burden for many.

And yet, Kuwait stands out as one of the few countries whose generosity extends to all who live on its land — citizens and residents alike — offering basic medical treatment without distinction. But as therapeutic technologies advance, particularly in the field of cancer care, the cost of some medications has risen to levels beyond the capacity of even the most developed nations. In such a context, charitable institutions have become essential in supporting patients who require these life-saving yet prohibitively expensive treatments — treatments that burden even the wealthiest countries.

For over forty years, the Patient Assistance Fund Association has played a pivotal role in filling this gap. Thanks to individual donations and community-driven initiatives, the association has been able to offer crucial financial support to patients struggling to afford their treatments.

Recently, however, there has been confusion and concern about a supposed suspension of patient aid, allegedly due to the new regulations introduced by the state to strengthen charitable governance. These new rules are designed to promote transparency, proper oversight, and the responsible use of donor funds — important reforms that aim to ensure long-term trust and sustainability in the charitable sector.

To better understand the situation, I listened carefully to the clarification issued by the Patient Assistance Fund Association. Their statement dispelled much of the ambiguity: assistance continues for patients whose treatment costs are fully covered by the Fund. As for patients who are financially able to contribute a portion of their treatment costs, the process has simply changed. Previously, such patients would submit their share directly to the Fund, which would then complete the payment and coordinate with the health authority. Due to the temporary suspension of fundraising, the Fund could no longer receive these partial payments — causing a brief disruption. However, a new mechanism was quickly introduced: patients now submit their share directly to the treatment provider, and the Fund completes the remaining balance. Thanks to this adjustment, patients have resumed treatment without delay.

As for patients seeking treatment abroad, this remains more difficult for now, as foreign medical support is still suspended under the current aid restrictions. Nevertheless, the leadership of the Fund has shown a commendable commitment to adapting to the new regulations, always keeping patients at the heart of their mission.

How many of our brothers and sisters living in Kuwait have found relief and healing through this noble charity — an initiative born from the compassion of young Kuwaiti doctors in the late 1970s? Those once-young pioneers are now today’s elders, wise and steadfast, who helped open the door for generous donors to give — trusting in their Creator’s reward on the Day they meet Him.

The government has acted wisely, and volunteers have responded with dedication. In this, everyone has won — donors, institutions, and, above all, the patients. This is Kuwait — a country where mercy walks hand in hand with accountability, and charity remains a source of pride and purpose for all.

local@kuwaittimes.com