Gilead Sciences hosts key healthcare workshop in Bahrain
CONSUMER NEWS
Gilead Sciences, in collaboration with Bahraini Ministry of Health and leading healthcare experts, sponsored a specialized workshop in Manama, Bahrain, focused on tackling stigma associated with HIV and promoting effective communication with PWH among healthcare professionals.
The workshop is part of the ongoing efforts to provide healthcare professionals across the Middle East with the tools and knowledge needed to improve patient outcomes and reduce stigma for people with HIV, said Gilead Sciences in a statement.
It brought together infectious disease specialists, public health experts, and healthcare providers from across the Kingdom. Participants engaged in interactive discussions and practical training sessions designed to strengthen patient-centric communication and ensure better linkage to care for PWH.
The program covered a range of topics, including understanding negative societal perceptions around HIV, building trust with PWH, integrating psychosocial support into treatment, and reinforcing ethical and legal responsibilities in HIV care.
Attendees also participated in interactive exercises to enhance empathetic communication skills and foster supportive environments for PWH.
A highlight of the workshop was a commitment board, where participants document their commitments to help break down HIV-stigma and create inclusive, respectful healthcare practices for PWH in Bahrain.
Dr Jameela Al Salman, Senior Consultant in Infectious Diseases, Associate Professor at Arabian Gulf University, and WHO STAG Chair for Antimicrobial Resistance, said the Kingdom of Bahrain has achieved significant milestones in increasing the awareness about the HIV thanks to the efforts of its healthcare experts.
She also lauded the workshops calling it an extension to the kingdom's vision and representing a critical step to ensure healthcare professionals are well-prepared to support PWH not only with medical care but also psychological support.
"By focusing on education, empathy, and effective communication, we aim to create an environment where stigma is reduced, trust is built, and PLWH have better access to the care," stated Al Salman.
Vitor Papao, General Manager at Gilead Sciences Middle East, said: "Across the region, healthcare professionals continue to face challenges when it comes to addressing HIV-related stigma and supporting PWH effectively."
"By working alongside experts here in Bahrain, we aim to exchange knowledge, share practical approaches, and provide resources that can help improve patient experiences and outcomes across different healthcare settings," he added.
