Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar yesterday highlighted the vital role of nurses and midwives in the healthcare sector in a message to mark International Nursing and Midwifery Day.
He added that the theme of this year’s celebration, ‘Our Nurses. Our Future. The Economic Power of Healthcare’, emphasises the importance of investing in these professions for societal and economic well-being.
Observed on May 12 and May 5 respectively, International Nurses Day and International Day of the Midwife have been turned into International Nursing and Midwifery Day in Brunei Darussalam, celebrated annually on May 12.
The theme, selected by the International Council of Nurses (ICN), underscores the economic impact of nursing care. The minister stressed that nursing and midwifery have evolved beyond bedside care to encompass highly technical and advanced roles, making them indispensable in the healthcare landscape.
Despite their pivotal role, nurses and midwives often face challenges such as inadequate funding and recognition. The minister urged policymakers to take decisive actions to safeguard these professions, citing recommendations from the International Council of Nurses’ Charter for Change.
The Ministry of Health (MoH) has been actively working to enhance nursing services, focusing on International Patient Safety Goals (IPSG) as key performance indicators in healthcare assessments, to improve patient care and safety, aligning with global healthcare goals.
The minister said International Nursing and Midwifery Day serves as a reminder of the dedication and professionalism exhibited by nurses and midwives in providing exceptional care, and encouraged all nurses and midwives to continue contributing to a sustainable and high-quality healthcare system. – Fadley Faisal
