Kuwait city: Minister of Health Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi announced on Monday the issuance of four ministerial decisions focused on combating drugs and psychotropic substances, as well as regulating their use and trafficking. This initiative is part of the state's comprehensive legislative strategy to enhance societal protection and health security.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the Ministry of Health issued a press release detailing the first decision, which designates the Al-Sulaibiya Youth Center building as a specialized facility named "Addiction Rehabilitation Center." This center is intended to provide treatment and rehabilitation for addiction patients, aligning with Article (3) of Decree Law No. 159 of 2025. The center aims to adopt a holistic treatment approach, integrating health care with psychological and social rehabilitation to improve recovery rates and facilitate the reintegration of patients into society.
The second decision establishes a regulatory framework for managing reports and medical prescriptions related to narcotic and psychotropic substances for individuals arriving from abroad. This allows for the controlled entry of specific quantities for personal treatment, contingent upon the submission of approved medical reports or prescriptions through either written attestation or electronic means verified by official Kuwaiti authorities.
The third decision pertains to the regulation of the use and trade of narcotic and psychotropic substances within licensed health facilities. It mandates obtaining prior licenses for the import, export, or transport of these substances, and regulates their medical prescription and dispensing according to approved standards and specified quantities. Licensed entities must document the movement of these substances in official records, and regulations are set for doctors' possession and handling of these materials in emergencies and within health facilities.
The fourth decision establishes a legal and regulatory framework for admitting individuals to addiction treatment and rehabilitation centers. Admission can be initiated by the patient, their family or employer, or by a decision from health authorities, with procedures ensuring confidentiality and privacy. The decision also outlines the roles of the Public Prosecution and law courts in detention procedures as alternatives to criminal proceedings, with detention periods set by the Public Prosecution or judicial ruling, allowing for early release upon recovery as verified by an approved medical report.
The Ministry of Health emphasized that these decisions form a comprehensive regulatory framework, reflecting the state's commitment to safeguarding society from the threats posed by drugs and psychotropic substances while ensuring patient rights to safe and systematic treatment, thus strengthening the public health system in line with professional and legislative standards.