Bahrain is a small island nation located in the Persian Gulf, with a population of approximately 1.7 million people. The country has a developing healthcare system that includes end of life care services such as hospices.
Overview of Hospices in Bahrain
Hospices in Bahrain are specialized medical facilities that provide palliative care to patients with life-limiting illnesses. The primary goal of hospices is to improve the quality of life of patients by managing their symptoms and providing emotional and spiritual support to patients and their families.
The hospice care in Bahrain is provided by both private and government-run facilities. The care provided in hospices is patient-centered and focuses on addressing the unique needs and preferences of each patient.
In Bahrain, hospices work in close collaboration with other healthcare providers, such as hospitals, home care agencies, and primary care physicians, to ensure a seamless transition of care for patients.
Local Customs and Practices
Bahrain is a Muslim-majority country, and local customs and practices surrounding death and dying reflect Islamic traditions. In Bahrain, death is viewed as a natural part of life, and people often celebrate the life of the deceased through traditional funeral practices.
Islamic funeral practices require that the deceased be buried as soon as possible after death. Family members are responsible for washing the body, dressing it in white shrouds, and placing it in a casket. The funeral service is typically held in a mosque, and family members and close friends may be invited to attend.
It is also customary in Bahrain for the family of the deceased to receive condolences from relatives, friends, and community members. The period of mourning typically lasts for three days, during which time family members may receive visitors at their home.
What to do When Someone Dies in Bahrain
When someone dies in Bahrain, several procedures must be followed to ensure that the deceased is appropriately cared for, and that the necessary legal requirements are met. Here are the steps to follow:
Contact a Doctor: If the death occurs at home, a physician or medical professional should be contacted immediately. The doctor will examine the deceased and issue a death certificate.
Contact the Funeral Home: Once the death has been confirmed, the next step is to contact a funeral home to make arrangements for the deceased. Funeral homes are responsible for transporting the deceased, preparing the body for burial, and organizing the funeral service.
Notify the Ministry of Health: The Ministry of Health must be notified of the death within 24 hours. The ministry will issue a death certificate that is required for burial.
Obtain a Burial Permit: Before the deceased can be buried, a burial permit must be obtained from the Ministry of Health. The permit confirms that all legal requirements have been met and authorizes the burial.
Organize the Funeral: The funeral service can be organized by the family or the funeral home, depending on the family’s preferences. In Bahrain, funeral services are typically held in a mosque. Family members and close friends may be invited to attend the funeral service, and it is customary to wear white clothing as a sign of respect.
Notify Government Services: Any government services, such as social security or healthcare benefits, should be canceled to avoid any issues with payments or fraud.
Notify Other Agencies: Other agencies, such as the post office or utility companies, should be notified of the death to avoid any issues with bills or services.
Settle the Estate: If the deceased had a will, the executor of the estate should begin the process of settling the estate. This includes distributing assets, paying debts and taxes, and filing any necessary legal documents.
It is important to note that the procedures for dealing with the death of a loved one in Bahrain may vary depending on the circumstances of the death and the location. It is recommended to seek guidance from local authorities and healthcare providers to ensure that all necessary procedures are followed and that the deceased is given the proper care and respect they deserve.
End of life care in Bahrain is provided by both private and government-run hospices that focus on improving the quality of life of patients with life-limiting illnesses. The local customs and practices surrounding death and dying in Bahrain reflect the country’s Islamic traditions and emphasize the importance of family support and community.
When someone dies in Bahrain, there are specific procedures that must be followed to ensure that the deceased is appropriately cared for, and that the necessary legal requirements are met. It is essential to seek guidance from local authorities and healthcare providers to ensure that all necessary procedures are followed and that the deceased is given the proper care and respect they deserve.