Minister of Health issues a ministerial decision to establish the "Fertility Medicine Unit Laboratory" in the departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Today, Wednesday, Minister of Health Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadi issued a ministerial decree establishing a technical unit titled the “Fertility Medicine Unit Laboratory” within the gynecology and obstetrics departments of hospitals affiliated with the Ministry of Health. This move aims to strengthen the technical and regulatory governance of these laboratories and to solidify quality and safety standards in their services.
In a press release, the Ministry of Health stated that the decree defined the technical and administrative tasks and responsibilities of the head of the Fertility Medicine Unit Laboratory. These include supervising specialized laboratory operations and procedures, such as egg retrieval, fertilization, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and the freezing of embryos and human sperm. The decree also mandates the implementation of approved protocols, management of equipment and facilities, ensuring operational efficiency, and maintaining sterilization and safety requirements.
The ministry clarified that the decree places significant emphasis on quality assurance and monitoring programs, analysis of assisted reproduction cycle data, success rates and indicators, preparation of periodic reports, and utilizing these insights to enhance performance. It also highlights staff training and evaluation, as well as fostering collaboration between laboratories and clinical teams to support the integration of care provided to patients.
The ministry noted that the decree organized the supervision mechanism for Fertility Medicine Unit laboratories, specifying that they report technically and administratively to the Head of Fertility Medicine Unit Laboratories, who in turn reports technically and administratively to the Council of Gynecology and Obstetrics Departments. The decree outlines the head’s responsibilities in monitoring performance quality, evaluating results and statistics, overseeing the implementation of quality control programs, tracking needs and supplies, and managing equipment maintenance contracts.
Furthermore, the decree emphasizes strengthening research and development, keeping pace with scientific and technological advancements in fertility medicine and assisted reproduction, and formulating future plans to develop laboratory technologies. It also includes provisions for monitoring the training of newly appointed staff, assessing their readiness, and ensuring their suitability for work in this specialized field.
The ministry pointed out that the decree sets specific requirements for academic qualifications and professional experience for individuals assuming the role of Head of Fertility Medicine Unit Laboratories. This ensures that technical and administrative responsibilities are entrusted to qualified and experienced personnel, thereby enhancing the efficiency of the operational system and the quality of services provided.
The ministry affirmed that the decree aligns with the Ministry of Health’s efforts to develop the fertility medicine and assisted reproduction service system, strengthen governance, quality, and specialization in laboratory management, and support the safety of procedures, operational efficiency, and integrated healthcare delivery.
