Royal Medical Services (RMS) organised the Second International Paediatrics Conference on February 10-12 at the Crown Prince Centre for Training and Medical Research, under the theme "Care Beyond Treatment: Together Towards Better Child Health", reflecting its humanitarian vision that "where science meets compassion for a better future for every child".

The conference was inaugurated by Lieutenant-General Dr. Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, President of the Supreme Council of Health (SCH), in the presence of Health Minister Dr. Jalila bint Al Sayyed Jawad Hassan, leaders of hospitals and medical centres affiliated with RMS, and a distinguished group of consultants, experts and specialists in paediatrics, alongside participants from within and outside the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Colonel Dr. Shaikh Salman bin Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Commander of King Hamad University Hospital (KHUH) and Chairman of Conference, delivered a speech in the opening ceremony. He noted that paediatrics has a unique character grounded in growth, development, prevention and partnership with families, stressing that caring for children extends beyond treating immediate conditions to shaping a comprehensive life trajectory. He highlighted child health as one of the most valuable investments in any healthcare system, given its long-term impact on societal stability and prosperity.

He referred to significant progress achieved in neonatal care and in treating congenital and chronic conditions, emphasising that the next phase requires stronger integration across specialties, support for healthcare personnel, and equitable access to services for children. He added that paediatrics is undergoing qualitative transformation driven by precision medicine, genomics, artificial intelligence and digital health.

Dr. Haya Mohammed Al Khayat, Chair of the Organising Committee, Head of the Paediatrics Department, and Consultant in Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes at the Military Hospital, also delivered remarks. She said that the conference theme reflects a comprehensive humanitarian vision that places the child at the centre of development, noting that the event was designed as an intellectual and scientific platform bringing together expertise and advancing the transition from treatment-focused practice to holistic care balancing scientific progress with the human dimension. She explained that the scientific programme integrates specialised knowledge with a broader perspective through lectures, panel discussions and working papers that strengthen multidisciplinary collaboration and support evidence-based medical practice.

The conference featured specialised scientific papers and training workshops held prior to its convening, addressing the latest developments and clinical experiences across paediatrics. Participation by leading experts and consultants contributed to knowledge exchange and to enhancing the quality of healthcare provided to children in line with best international standards.

The opening ceremony also included a documentary film titled "Care Beyond Treatment", highlighting the conference’s importance and objectives in advancing paediatric services, strengthening integration and cooperation, and exploring the future of healthcare based on innovation and sustainability.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, a commemorative gift was presented to the President of the Supreme Council of Health, followed by a group photograph marking the start of the conference’s scientific sessions.

The organisation of the conference reflects RMS’ commitment to supporting continuing medical education, strengthening scientific research, and showcasing national research efforts, thereby enhancing the Kingdom of Bahrain’s standing regionally and internationally.