COOPERATIVE
HEALTH INSURANCE
January 2011, Issue 12
Medication Outside the Realm of Insurance
Vitamins and Psychiatric drugs not covered
Dr. Rashid Al-Rashid Alhomaid:
Healthcare services in KSA at par with
those in developed countries
ICD-10 Medical Coding
Towards Increased Efficiency
and Cooperation
Editor’s note
Since the launch of the Cooperative Health Insurance Magazine as a voice of the
Council on the one hand, and an incubator for the health insurance sector, on the
other hand, we took upon ourselves the responsibility of reflecting the reality of
Editor-in-Chief: this sector by deliberating on each and every insurance issue and researching all
Dr. Abdullah Bin Ibrahim Al-Sharif matters related to this important sector.
Secretary General of the Council of Cooperative Health
To achieve this, we are fully committed to transparency and objectivity, and we
Insurance
asharif@cchi.gov.sa are keen to include all that matters in this sector, and in particular, the beneficiaries
of health insurance services.
Asst.Editor In Chief In line with this aim, we discuss in this issue a range of subjects that have never
Mohammed S. Al Hussain been covered before. In our Hot Topic segment, we highlight the issue of the
Asst. Gen.Secretary of Admin & Finance medications covered and uncovered in the insurance policy and the main reasons
of the Council of Cooperative Health Insurance
for this difference.
The General Secretariat of the Council of Cooperative Our Cover Story this month focuses on the medical coding system, adopted
Health Insurance in the Kingdom, in terms of its importance, benefits and role in improving and
PO Box 94764 Riyadh 11614 advancing health services.
Phone: 920001177 The topics discussed in this issue are many and varied. As in every issue, in this
Fax: 014870071
edition also we profile a company operating in the insurance sector – SALAMA
www.cchi.gov.sa
Takaful Insurance and Reinsurance Co – reviewing its history and insurance
programs. In this context, we also shed light on the social responsibility programs
carried out by BUPA Arabia, and highlight its efforts in the training of staff and
Publisher: Saudi nurses to provide home health care, in addition to other activities designed
for the service and benefit of the society.
In keeping with the magazine’s vision of enhancing general awareness of the
insurance culture, we conducted an opinion poll to find out if policyholders are
aware of their rights guaranteed by their insurance polices as well as the reasons
for uncertainty that cause major problems between insurance companies and
customers.
We also reviewed the financial results of insurance companies during the
first nine months of the year, and the successes achieved in the performance of
companies in general. In our Finance and Investment section, we discuss the ways
CEO: Rabih El-Amine insurance companies can deal with losses and the options available in this area.
rabiha@alefinternational.com
As part of our efforts in understanding the experiences of other countries in the
Editor-in-Chief: Mustafa Shehab
mustafas@alefinternational.com field of health insurance, we review in this issue, the Australian experience.
Associate Editor: Amira Hamadeh
In Tourism, we are off to Jordan, where we share with our readers some of the
archaeological treasures of this brotherly Arab country, while also touring the city
Editors: Said Al-Hasanieh
Syed Noori Mohammed of Petra, one of the most fascinating wonders of the world.
Yasmeen Hinnawi In the end, we answer your questions and comments in our Insurance Forum.
Jehad Abou Hashem
We hope you enjoy reading the magazine. See you in the next issue.
Group Editor (English) Afifa Jabeen Quraishi
Senior Graphic Designer: Hussain Mohamed Al-Bakri
Editor-in-Chief
Distribution:
P.O. Box: 301292 Riyadh 11372, Phone: 0096614623632
E-mail: info@alefinternational.com
The reproduction or reprinting of any part of this magazine must have
the express permission of the publisher, who reserves the right to
initiate legal action against any violation.
News 6 In the Spotlight 14 Finance & Investment 36 Tech World 40
Interactive TV, or ITV, a term we often
CCHI meets with insurance Controlling deficit and dealing with losses hear these days, is a technology that
companies, discusses developments Borrowing, merging or innovating allows the viewer to interact with the
are the options television set in ways other than simply
The Council of Cooperative Health controlling the channel.
Insurance (CCHI) recently met with The insurance sector is considered as the
health insurance companies and main pillar in the global economy and
claims management companies to equity markets. However, it continues
discuss the latest developments in to witness difficulties in the Arab
the health insurance sector after the market, specifically in Saudi Arabia,
comprehensive application of the mainly because of the modest capitals
Islamic Arab Insurance Company,
cooperative health insurance system to and the recent entry in the Saudi stock
the first Shariah-compliant insurance
all targeted segments. market.
solutions (Takaful) provider in
the world, was founded in the
United Arab Emirates, and began
its operations in 1979.
Snippets 18
18 Hot Topic 20 Social Responsibility 24 Reports and Analysis 44 Around the World 48 Lifestyle 52
Medication Outside the Realm of
Insurance The Saudi market recorded good financial Fragrances are tantalizing enough to delight
Vitamins and Psychiatric drugs results during the first nine months of one’s senses, take the breath away and make
not covered 2010. One hundred and two companies you fall in love with them.
achieved a net profit of SR61.32 billion,
while 27 companies suffered a loss rate of
SR2.63 billion.
Health Insurance in Australia:
Establishing Equality and Excellence
The participation of companies and The health insurance system of
institutions in social responsibility Australia, which is known for its
programs has become one of tolerant and diverse society composed
Dar Al-Takaful launches world’s first
the main prerequisites of human of many races, ethnicities and cultures,
bloodstock Takaful product
development. is characterized by its unique concept.
Cover Story 28 Interview 28
32 Travel & Trourism 56 Survey 60
In this issue of the Jordan: The Land of Civilization
Cooperative Health Insurance Visiting a country that is rich in tourist
Magazine, we meet with Dr. sites – from ancient historic castles and
Rashid Bin Suleiman Bin Rashid Al- forts to magnificent wildlife reserves
Rashid Alhomaid, Vice Chancellor and other attractions – is always a
of King Saud bin Abdulaziz splendid experience. Choosing where
University for Health Sciences - to go or which place to visit becomes
Postgraduate Studies and the former a difficult task, especially in a country
Under the guidance of the Minister Secretary General of the Council that abounds in geographical diversity
of Health Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabiah, of Cooperative Health Insurance and is considered to be a magnet for
President of the Council, Saudi Arabia (CCHI). tourists from all around the world, as is
How informed are insurers about their health
implemented a medical coding system in the case with Jordan.
insurance policy?
order to benefit from modern technology
in managing health insurance.
News
CCHI meets with insurance companies, discusses AXA Cooperative committed to Saudization
developments AXA Cooperative Insurance Company
(AXA Cooperative), one of the top five
only because of Saudization, but in order to take
advantage of the superior Saudi cadres.”
insurance companies in the world, In a step aimed at reinforcing its market leadership
The Council of Cooperative Health Insurance (CCHI) recently met with announced that 37 percent of their staff and competitive advantages in the insurance sector
health insurance companies and claims management companies to discuss comprises of Saudi nationals, in line across the region, AXA Insurance Gulf has launched
the latest developments in the health insurance sector after the comprehensive with the company’s commitment to its new enhanced Home Insurance online, responding
application of the cooperative health insurance system to all targeted segments. increase its Saudi staff by five percent to customers demanding more accessibility whilst
The meeting started with a speech by Dr. Abdullah bin Ibrahim Al-Sharif, Secretary annually to meet the Saudization target providing competitive benefits, a reasonable price
General of the Council, who welcomed the attendees and talked about the objectives of the company. and good service.
of the meeting, which the Secretariat organizes periodically, stressing on the need to Henri de Castries, Chairman and Alexis de Beauregard, Chief Officer - Marketing
expand training courses and workshops. CEO of AXA Group, told newsmen at a press conference in and Retail Products at AXA Insurance Gulf said: “Home
He also stressed on the importance of communication between the various Riyadh: “The launch of AXA Cooperative in the Kingdom at Insurance in the UAE has a very low penetration. However,
insurance parties to understand their needs and come up with solutions for the the beginning of the year is a pivotal step towards expanding more and more people are looking to insure their homes and
insurance industry. Al-Sharif said: “The secretariat of the Council has taken important our footprint in the country. We are keen on providing the we have enhanced our product to meet the varying needs,
steps, which in partnership with insurance companies have contributed positively to necessary training to our Saudi staff both in and out of the providing flexible options along with the convenience of
the health insurance sector.” Kingdom in order to make them efficient resource personnel buying the product online.”
“The number of qualified insurance companies has reached 26, in addition to in the insurance field.” He also went on to elaborate on the importance of Home
five claims management companies, while the number of insurers has He added: “We will, therefore, continue leveraging our Insurance. “A home is the most important asset that a
reached seven million. The Council will continue to play its supervisory and regulatory international expertise and adapt these for the Saudi market. person has and it needs to be protected from damage and
role, under which it has filed 330 complaints against insurance companies. But if we We will also continue investing in our employees and use the destruction. Not only will a good policy save your money
compare the number of complaints to the number of insurers, we notice that people large pool of well-educated nationals as a prime source for in an event that something untoward happens, but an
are becoming more aware of the cooperative health insurance system.” recruitments.” insurance company can also help with other matters such
Abdul-Aziz Al-Shahri, Director General for Human as making your home more resistant to natural disasters or
Resources at AXA Insurance in the Kingdom said: providing you with an alternate accommodation if your
“The Company aims to recruit the best Saudi graduates not home is damaged.
Disasters cost insurance industry $36 billion
Natural catastrophes and man-made
disasters in 2010 cost the global
last year and the highest number since The United States of Diabetes
1976. The deadliest event was the Haiti
insurance industry $36 billion. However, earthquake in January, which claimed
the economic loss for society was much more than 220,000 lives.
higher at $222 billion, scoring a 250
percent increase compared to a total of
$63 million in 2009.
Swiss Re, the second largest insurance More than 50 percent of Americans
company in the world, said: “In 2009, could have diabetes or pre-diabetes
worldwide economic losses were only by 2020 at a cost of $3.35 trillion
$63 billion and insured losses were over the next decade if current trends
34 percent less than that during 2010 are anything to go by, according to an
($27 billion). Natural catastrophes analysis by the UnitedHealth Group.
have cost the global insurance industry New estimates show diabetes and pre-
approximately $31 billion during 2010 diabetes will account for an estimated
and man-made disasters have cost 10 percent of total healthcare spending
around $5 billion.” by the end of the decade at an annual
“Due to a comparably mild US cost of almost $500 billion – up from
hurricane season this year, losses for an estimated $194 billion this year.
the worldwide insurance industry were The report notes that the annual
in line with the 20-year average in health care costs in 2009 for a person
2010,” Swiss Re said. with diagnosed diabetes averaged
Severe catastrophes claimed approximately $11,700 compared to
significantly more lives this year than an average of $4,400 for the remainder
in 2009. Nearly 260,000 people died of the population.
in these events, compared to 15,000
6 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 7
News
Teachers may soon be covered by health insurance
Dr. Solomon Al-Kareda, Director- health insurance coverage. Therefore, creating a healthy environment for
General of Teachers Affairs in the we formed a specialized committee to them,” he added.
Ministry of Education, said that the study the issue from all its aspects and Asked if the teachers’ suggestions in
Ministry has formed a committee the education ministry is constantly regards to the project were considered,
to study the application of medical working on it,” Al-Kareda said. Al-Kareda said: “The history of the
insurance for teachers. He told Al- “When we say that a committee has Ministry attests in many areas the
Hayat newspaper that the Ministry been formed, it means that we are ready involvement of teachers in the evaluation
did not neglect this important to implement this project, but we still of a number of projects and channels. We
segment, and that all sectors in need time. Everyone is aware that the do not say that all of them are involved
the state, especially the Ministry of Ministry did not neglect this segment in the process of evaluating projects, but
Health, attach great significance to of society, which has been receiving teachers are always aware of the projects
the project. great attention from all sectors of the implemented by the Ministry, and that
“This comes in line with the future state, especially the Ministry of Health. is done by different ways including
goals of the Ministry. Many teachers are We will spare no effort in providing conducting questionnaires, field visits
still hoping for the day when they get everything necessary for teachers and and surveys.”
Tawuniya offers vehicle liability insurance
against rain, flood
The Company for Cooperative 2009. Most customers had not received customers for an additional installment
Insurance (Tawuniya) issued a new damages for their vehicles as they held of SR50 per vehicle annually. Last year,
product aimed at covering insured the compulsory vehicle liability policies more than ten thousand vehicles were
vehicles under the SANAD liability exclusive of natural risks.” seriously damaged by flood, according
program against rain and flood. This After rain and flood swept the city, to official reports.
coverage against natural risks is the the company decided to launch the Tawuniya has recently updated its
first of its kind in the Kingdom. SANAD policy, which will cover IT systems and has equipped all its
Deputy CEO Hesham Al-Sharif vehicles against natural risks including branches with publications explaining
said: “Tawuniya was considering this rain and flood. The coverage reaches the details of the new
coverage since the Jeddah floods of up to SR20,000. It is available to retail coverage, conditions and benefits.
8 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 9
News
SAICO recommends Malath electronically
EP Chamber of Commerce re-elects insurance capital increase
committee links 500 medical service
The Insurance Committee in the Chamber agents and providers of support services.
The Board of Directors of Saudi Arabian Cooperative
Insurance Company (SAICO) recommended increasing
providers
of Commerce and Industry in the Eastern The Chairman of the Insurance
the company’s capital from SR100 million to SR150
Province has re-elected its members. Committee noted that the Committee Malath Cooperative Insurance and Reinsurance has linked
million in a step to expand its insurance activities and to
Salah Mohamed Al- Jabr was appointed made a number of recommendations more than 500 medical service providers in the Kingdom
acquire the portfolio of Saudi Arabian Insurance Company.
as its Chairman for a term of four years, addressing the most important issues and the Gulf region through an electronic system provided
The capital increase will take place via priority shares to
and Hussein Al- Shabaan as the Deputy facing the insurance sector, including: by Waseel for the transfer of electronic information as per
registered shareholders on the day of the Extraordinary
Chairman. This was announced during • Providing training to Saudis the agreement between the two parties that allows Malath
General Meeting- (EGM), which will be announced later.
a committee meeting held recently, working in this sector to enjoy the service through its widespread network.
The number of shares as well as the share price will be set
where members discussed a number of • Attaining the Ali Al-Aaed, CEO of Malath, in a statement to Al-
once the approval of the related authorities is secured.
issues concerning the development of Saudization percentage Eqtisadiya newspaper said: “Malath is looking forward
The company confirmed that it will register with the
the insurance sector in the local market. required by insurance companies to the implementation of the e-services project as it will
Capital Market Authority, the Monetary Agency, and
Al-Jabr, who served as the Regional • Opening new channels for high- improve the quality of performance and will bring many
other relevant bodies in order to obtain final approval to
Director for WEQAYA for insurance class training
determine the requirements of the presentation and the
and reinsurance in the Eastern Province, • Providing the insurance
prices of the offered shares.
presented to the 12 members of the market with scientific and
Insurance Committe a work plan designed and field studies that serve the growth
to enhance the work of the Committee, develop a strong and development of the sector and
achieve further gains service, and work relationship between all of these its services.
to overcome difficulties facing the sector parties.” Dr. Metab Al-Rougui, CEO of WEQAYA
that were limiting its contribution to the Al-Jabr expressed his thanks and for insurance and reinsurance in
national economy. appreciation for the members of the the Eastern Province, expressed his
He said: “There is no doubt that Insurance Committee, acknowledging confidence in Al-Jabr’s election as the
the Insurance Committee depends on the confidence they entrusted him. Chairman, saying: “Al- Jabr is one
the support and attention it receives He also promised to activate of our most qualified national
from the concerned authorities in the the role of the Insurance Committee, cadres and has an extensive practical
insurance sector, especially the Saudi support its decision-making process experience in the insurance field. He
Arabian Monetary Agency, the Council through government agencies related is definitely eligible for this position
of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, to the insurance sector, and work to and his presence as the head of the
and the Council of Cooperative Health increase the number of members of the Committee will have a positive
Insurance. Therefore, we will work in its Committee to represent the largest reflection on the sector as a whole.”
current session to strengthen this support, number of service providers, brokers,
benefits to the beneficiaries of the insurance sector first,
Gulf insurance incurs SR32 million losses in addition to operational benefits to the company and
medical service providers.”
He noted that the project underwent a trial period that
Gulf General Insurance Cooperative has been completed successfully with medical providers.
Co suffered financial losses amounting “The provided services will include the service of patient
to SR32.078 million during the period eligibility for treatment, medical service approvals,
from March 1, 2010 until August electronic claims service, as well as the service of
30, 2010. According to the financial e-documents,” Al-Aaed added.
statements received from the external Riad Pajuda, CEO of Waseel, said that Malath would
auditors, the losses were distributed benefit in many ways from joining the network for
between pre-operating expenses and electronic transactions, which include major local and
foundation expenses, as reported by regional insurance companies. “This system will increase
Al-Riyadh daily. The company began the number of beneficiaries of electronic services.
operations in April this year. Moreover, this step would be an incentive for medical
providers to engage in electronic transactions and benefit
from the great advantages.”
10 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 11
SAMA introduces new set of regulations
Saudi insurance regulator, Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority
(SAMA), has instituted two new sets of regulations governing
the insurance entities in the Kingdom, which will be added to
the five regulations currently in force.
Informed sources in the insurance sector said to Al-Jazeera
newspaper that out of the two, one of the regulations is related
to reinsurance and support; and the other is responsible for
investment. The second regulation will develop standards
that insurance companies must commit to when investing
their funds. SAMA will develop an outline and criteria for
investment, and insurance companies can choose through
them the investment they intend to enter into it.
These regulations are indicative of SAMA's refocusing
of its energies, supervisory activities, and a move to greater
regulatory scrutiny in the Kingdom. The volume of the
insurance sector now is estimated at SR10 billion, while many
experts are expecting the sector to grow to SR30 billion in the
next five years. while sources predict that about five other companies will
Through its supervision of the insurance sector, SAMA enter the market soon.
has re-regulated the sector and transferred all the offices It is noteworthy that the regulations which are currently at
that were operating in the market to the public joint stock work include: the regulation of the behavior of the insurance
companies, according to specific and strict terms and market, rules against money laundering, terrorist financing to
conditions. The number of insurance companies that have insurance companies, anti-fraud, risk management and the
been licensed and included in the Saudi market stands at 31, costs of supervision and inspection.
Arabia Insurance
elects new Board
The ordinary General Assembly of
Arabia Insurance Cooperative Co.
(AICC) approved, during its meeting
held recently in the hall of Sheikh
Abdul Aziz Mukairin, Chamber of
Commerce and Industry in Riyadh,
the election of members of the Board
of Directors of the Company for
the second session extended over a
period of three years effective from
Jan.1, 2011.
The list of elected members include:
Dr. Saleh bin Abdulaziz Al-Omair, Trade Union’s six new products
Tariq Mutleq Al-Mutleq, Dr. Hisham
Sobhi Basat, Fadi George Shammas, approved
Khaldoun Abdul Rahman Abu Hassan,
Ghassan Ibrahim Aqil, Yusuf Talal Al- The Trade Union Cooperative Company for Insurance recently announced that it
Zahid, Faisal Mohammed Al-Nowaser, had obtained the approval of SAMA for six new products. The approved insurance
Abdulaziz Abdulhadi Al-Qahtani, policies include: road transport (one trip), movable maritime cargo, maritime
Mohammed Ahmed Arar and Khaled goods (coverage is limited), maritime cargo (one trip), maritime units and marine
Saud Al- Deghaither. leisure units – bringing the number of final and temporary products that have
been approved to 34.
12 Safar 1432 | January 2011
In the Spotlight
Islamic Arab Insurance Company, the first Shariah-compliant
sAlAMA: World’s first provider of insurance solutions (Takaful) provider in the world, was founded
in the United Arab Emirates, and began its operations in 1979.
Shariah-compliant insurance solutions In 2007, it was licensed to operate in Saudi Arabia under
the name of Saudi IAIC for Cooperative Insurance (SALAMA).
(Takaful) It went on to become one of the first companies to be
licensed under the law of the cooperative insurance.
Right from its incorporation as a pioneer insurance policy that has distinguished
in the Takaful industry, to this day, as the medical services with different categories
world’s largest Takaful and Re-Takaful to meet the needs of all segments. All
company, SALAMA has always stayed health insurance classes correspond All of SALAMA’s
true to its values and principles. with the requirements of the Council of health insurance
SALAMA subsidies in the Arab world Cooperative Health Insurance (CCHI)
are: Islamic Arab Insurance Company, in terms of coverage and exceptions, as classes correspond
UAE; Egypt Saudi Insurance Home follows: with the requirements
(ESIH), Egypt; SALAMA Assurances, of the Council of
Algeria; SALAMA Assurances, Senegal; 1- Main coverage (Annual limit
BEST RE, Tunisia and TARIIC Holding per person per policy year=sR Cooperative Health
Company B.S.C, Bahrain. 250,000): Insurance (CCHI) in
• In-patient (hospitalization), terms of coverage and
VIsIOn: out-patient, diagnostic tests,
To be one of the top three companies consultation, chronic and pre- exceptions.
in the Saudi market in terms of market existing conditions
share and/or return on equity. • Maternity (maximum up to
SR15,000)
MIssIOn: • Acute psychological
To be the leading provider of treatment (maximum up to
innovative Shariah-compliant insurance SR15,000)
solutions (Takaful) at competitive • Dialysis and hospital accommodation
prices backed by strong operations, (covered up to SR100,000 per person
excellent human resources and per policy period)
effective distribution to serve the • Congenital diseases in new born, if
needs of customers, and maximize the life-threatening
value for shareholders. • Dental (covered up to SR2,000)
• Optical (covered up to SR200)
WORlD’s PRODucts AnD • Hearing test and hearing aid
seRVIces: (covered up to policy max limit)
SALAMA provides an extensive product • Acute psychological
range to meet diverse insurance needs treatment (maximum up to SR15,000)
of its customers. It provides all types of • Death repatriation (maximum up to
cover through its Family, General and SR10,000)
Health Takaful divisions. • Consultation (GP - SR50, Consultant
- up to SR250)
A- corporate Health care cover: • Physiotherapy (if medically
SALAMA provides cooperate health necessary and recommended)
14 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 15
In the Spotlight
2- covered all over the world for driver at the time of the accident and and forcible entry to or exit from e- Marine Insurance:
medical emergencies: the spouse, parents, children and the the premises). The sum insured can 1- Shipping Insurance: covers loses
• During business trips employees of the insured if they are either be based on the actual value or damages to the goods whilst being
• During annual leaves maximum up injured during the working hours or or the new replacement value of the transported irrespective of their mode of
to 60 days as a result of their work. property, but should be adequate conveyance i.e. sea, air or land. Special
• Coverage outside the Kingdom • Damages for materials and property, to cover the total exposure, and the types of goods like bulk commodities,
should be as per the customary except those owned by the insured coverage is subject to the policy’s perishable goods such as frozen items
charges of service providers or the driver at the time of the exceptions and exclusions. are dealt with especially designed
accident or property held in trust or covers according to the nature of these
3- non-emergency cases outside in their custody or control. D- Miscellaneous: consignments.
the Kingdom are covered up to 80 1- Worker’s Compensation: It provides 2- Marine vessels: This policy deals
percent subject to: c- Fire and Property: no-fault benefits in the event of with the insurance of the marine
• Pre-approval from insurance Fire and Allied Perils: Fire insurance death or injury to a ‘Worker’ due to vessels. The vessels could be of different
company policy covers immovable and movable an accident at work. Employers can types i.e. from gigantic oil tankers, tug
• As per the customary charges of property including buildings, plant and protect themselves in case they are vessels, normal goods carriers, gas
service providers machinery, furniture, fixtures, fittings, required to pay under the terms of this carriers, vessels built for carrying bulk
• Health insurance classes are divided contents, stocks/ stocks in process, legislation for injury to an employee by commodities, and passenger carrying
into five categories: VIP, A, B, C and raw material, goods held in trust or in purchasing the Worker’s Compensation vessels to small pleasure yachts and
C Limited Network. commission: policy. boats, etc. The policy covers physical
• Stocks at suppliers/customer’s damage to the body and machinery of
B- Motor takaful is divided into premises 2- Public Liability Insurance: It covers the vessels and marine liabilities.
two types: • Machinery temporarily removed any firm or any individual which/ who 3- Carrier’s liability: It covers losses
1- Motor Comprehensive: It covers from the premises for repairs due to in the normal course of business or or damages, the insurer is legally
loss of or damage to the insured loss or damage by fire or due to any other activities may negligently cause accountable for in case of losses or rest or during maintenance or during the
vehicle, its accessories and spare parts of the following perils: fire, lightning, damage to the property of others or damages resulting directly during transit of equipment and is not limited to Motor Comprehensive
aircraft, explosion, earthquake, injury to others. This may result in a specific construction site.
as a result of:
that person becoming legally liable to
the actual transfer of a vehicle – the
insurer is responsible for, within the Machinery Loss of Profit Insurance:
Insurance covers loss of
such persons whose property has been territorial limits set out in the policy, It covers the actual loss of gross profit or damage to the insured
Premiums are based on the type of occupancy, damaged or who have been injured. subject to the terms and conditions sustained because of a business vehicle, its accessories
physical features and values at risk. Apart from this liability, extensive of the policy. interruption caused by an accident
and spare parts.
legal fees may have to be paid. Public identifiable under machinery insurance.
Liability Insurance policy will pay F- engineering Insurance: The policy could cover the continuing
• Accidents or accidental collision strike, riot, civil commotion, all sums which a firm or individual 1- Erection All Risk Insurance: It offers business expenses (standing charges),
or overturning due to mechanical malicious damage, storm, tempest, may become legally liable to pay as comprehensive protection during the the net profit, the salaries and wages
breakdown or wear and tear flood, bursting and overflowing of compensation for bodily injury or period and stages of erection of the paid to employees, and the additional
• Fire, external explosion, self-ignition, water tanks, pipes etc. illness caused to third parties. machinery, plant and steel structures of expenditure incurred for avoiding or
lightning or thunderbolt any kind as well as third party claims diminishing a reduction in turnover.
• Burglary or theft • In the case of a partial loss, 3- Fidelity Guarantee: Should a in respect of property damage or bodily This insurance is of special interest for
• Malicious act of any third party payments for repairs or replacement company suffer a direct financial loss injury arising in connection with the bottleneck equipment used in the field
• Whilst being in transit (including the are made. In case of a policy with because of an employee’s dishonest execution of an erection project. of power generation like boilers, steam
process of loading and unloading a reinstatement value clause, the activities the Fidelity Guarantee policy 2- Contractor All Risks Insurance: It turbines, generators, transformers and
incidental to such transit) by road, cost of reinstatement will be paid will compensate the company for such offers comprehensive protection against process machinery, etc.
rail, inland waterway, lift or elevator. on completion of reinstatement, a loss. loss or damage in respect to contract Electronic Equipment Insurance: This
subject to an overall limit of the sum works of civil engineering projects, policy protects the insurer as lesser
2- Third Party Liability: insured. The insurance company, at 4- Cash in Transit / Cash in Safe construction plant and equipment and or lessee, as operator, or as hirer, or as
The company compensates the insured its discretion, may repair or replace Insurance: It covers robbery either construction machinery as well as third maintainer. This policy covers almost
in the event of an accident caused by or the affected property instead of during normal business hours or after party claims in respect of property all the perils but only after successful
arising out of the use of the motor vehicle, paying for the cost of restoration. normal business hours. Money may damage or bodily injury arising in commissioning of the insured items.
subject to the limits specified in this • Premiums are based on the type of be stolen whilst in transit between the connection with the execution of a Machinery Breakdown Insurance: It
policy, which the insured shall become occupancy, physical features and bank and the office or on any other construction project. coversdamage–unseenorsuddenphysical
legally liable to pay as compensation for, values at risk. route. This policy will compensate Contractor’s Plant and Machinery damage or manufacturing defects, errors
including: • Property All Risk: This Policy the business for such loss. It can be Insurance: It offers comprehensive in design, installation errors, poor skill
• Death or bodily injury to any person indemnifies against the losses extended to cover accidental injury to insurance to contractor’s plant and of the operator, neglect, lack of
including the passengers in the mentioned above, in addition to employees of the business who may be machinery on an annual basis. It offers water in boilers, blasts or wear caused
vehicles except the insured or the theft or attempted theft (by violent injured during a hold up. loss or damage occurring at work, at by centrifugation or circuit failure.
16 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 17
Snippets
Insurance discounts for UAE’s safe drivers Dar Al-Takaful launches
Insurance firms in the UAE are planning to give claim discounts to drivers, who
world’s first bloodstock
manage to keep their traffic records clean. Saleh Al-Zahri, President of UAE Insurance
Association, told Al-Etihad newspaper that drivers can get discounts starting from 20
Takaful product
percent reduction in the premium for those who hold a one-year clean traffic record Dubai-based Dar AlTakaful (Islamic Insurance and Reinsurance)
to 100 percent reduction for those who hold a clean traffic record for five years. announced the launch of its first Shariah-compliant bloodstock
Al-Zahri added that the Ministry of Interior signed an MOA with the Emirates Takaful product, offering protection to horse owners against
Insurance Association to ensure that safe driving translates into savings for motorists. financial losses.
Under the new scheme, one year without traffic accidents and black points would “I am delighted to announce that Dar Al-Takaful will offer this
mean a 20 percent reduction in the premium for insurance policies against loss, exciting new coverage to horse owners in the Emirates. This Equine
damage and civil liability. Drivers with a two-year clean traffic record would receive product is another example of Dar Al-Takaful’s commitment to
25 percent discount, while the discount will be 30 percent for a three-year clean innovation and originality in the dynamic Takaful environment
record and 35 percent for four years. of the UAE,” Ayman Al-Ajami, Chief Executive Officer of Dar Al-
He noted that this is the first time a reward scheme has been charted rather than Takaful, told Al-Eqtisadiya newspaper.
relying on traditional methods of penalizing drivers for traffic offences. “Be safe and “Dar Al-Takaful has established an equine underwriting unit in
save” is the message authorities hope to communicate. “Giving incentives to drivers Dubai, offering protection to horse owners against financial losses if
who abide by traffic rules and regulations will help reduce accidents and road-related their animal dies, as well as the cost of veterinary fees, which might
deaths by promoting safety and safe driving,” Al-Zahri said. be incurred when treating a sick animal, for all breeds of horse,
whatever it is used for,” he added.
The unit would be staffed by an equine underwriting team, which
would underwrite various classes of equine coverage, consisting
primarily of mortality, medical and surgical fees, loss of use, and
limited theft and unlawful removal, as well as bespoke solutions for
Healthcare for all Egyptians international competitors and large stables.
“The new Egyptian insurance law requires the state to treat for each worker at a rate of three percent of his salary; the
all Egyptians in various categories, including low-income worker himself will contribute by one percent.
groups, which account to 20 percent of the total population,” “To improve health service delivery and performance, in
said Dr. Nasser Rasmi, head of the Health Insurance
Authority. “These groups will be totally exempted from
addition to reducing costs, the new law designates the Health
Insurance Authority to finance and collect contributions, while WHO: Lack of health
paying any charge for treatment or monthly subscription,”
he added.
hospitals will only be responsible for providing treatment,” he
explained. “The service will open the door for competition insurance leads to
He explained that the “socially poor” category, which falls
directly in the low-income category, accounting to 8 percent
between hospitals of all types, including hospitals of the army,
police and universities, each striving to offer the lowest cost poverty, ill health
of the total population, will get an exemption, but they will and best treatment for citizens.”
contribute 30 percent of the treatment cost. Dr.Rasmi said that well-off citizens have to pay their monthly
Dr. Margaret Chan, Secretary of the
Dr. Rasmi, in an interview with “Good Morning Egypt” subscription even if they do not benefit from the health
World Health Organization (WHO), attributed the
TV program, said that the new law would be mandatory for insurance system, as many of them prefer to pay for their own
spread of infectious diseases and poverty to the lack of
all members of the family, including school children and treatment in private hospitals. “There are medical conditions
health insurance for the world’s poor. This came during
staff, as well as workers in the private sector. In this case, that require complicated surgeries and expensive medicines,
the presentation of the organization’s annual report in
the employer is required to pay for a monthly subscription and with the steady increase in the cost of healthcare services,
the German capital of Berlin recently.
well-off people may not be capable of paying for treatment at
“The world’s poor, especially in Africa, some Asian
their own expense.”
countries and some people of the Middle East
He noted that the draft of the new law included
and Latin America, lack access to health insurance,
“committing instead of forcing” all segments of society to
which is a critical factor for poor patients,” Dr. Chan
pay for their health insurance subscriptions. “The overall
explained, pointing out that some families go bankrupt
insurance network has been studied carefully and it
in their quest for a treatment. “Poor families should
takes into account justice and balance. For example, the
not be forced into bankruptcy to get healthcare,” she
monthly subscription would be reduced for the retirees, and
said. Unfortunately, the road towards providing free
would be reduced further if it would be collected from his
health insurance and healthcare treatment is next to
widow after his death.”
impossible in several countries.
Dr. Rasmi said the new system will
be implemented gradually, and it would be launched in five
provinces, fairly distributed between the Delta and Upper
Egypt, to cover all the provinces of the country.
18 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 19
Hot Topic
companies, even if they are prescribed -
in most cases - for medical reasons – and
not as a cosmetic or as supplements.
Medication Outside the Realm
“This also applies to children,
especially those aged between one
and six. For example, some types of
milk and vitamins, which are important
of Insurance
supplements, are refused coverage by
insurance companies. Also, diabetic
patients, especially those in their
forties, require certain vitamins and
Neuropharmacology medications. We
are surprised that the companies refuse
Vitamins and Psychiatric drugs not covered to cover these as well,” said the official.
He added: “Elderly patients who
suffer from sexual dysfunction and
need specific drugs are not covered
There is no doubt that insurance companies have solved many problems, eased the by insurance companies as well, and
sufferings of patients, considerably reduced the burden of government hospitals and similarly, hepatitis patients have to
pay an additional SR1000 for each
clinics, and contributed directly as well as indirectly to the growth of the national injection. Patients suffering from skin
economy through the provision of medical services that have led to better living standards diseases, especially those with allergies,
cannot have their creams covered by
and higher productivity. insurance companies.”
The other issue, said the manager,
is the issue of price disparity of some
medicines. “There is a great disparity in
the prices of many medicines, depending
This beautiful picture of insurance
companies, however, has shortcomings,
one of which is the paradox of uncovered
corporate department manager: Not a single
prescribed drugs and medications. This month passes without getting non-approval replies
issue has prompted many to question the from insurance companies for medical prescriptions
logic behind this and to search for a way
out of the dilemma that is facing many
we advice our patients. Thus, we bear the burden
patients and medical institutions. In this and costs.
edition, we shed light on the subject of
uncovered drugs, an issue that still has
it. Respecting their views, we will not on the manufacturer, while the structure
no feasible solution.
disclose the names of individuals who and components of the drug are the
To find out the source of the problem,
have asked to stay anonymous. same. A medicine can cost SR100 in one
we visited a few medical institutions in
First, we met with a corporate company, SR60 in a second company
order to explore the views of professional
department manager working at a and SR20 in the third. Both the doctor
doctors and insurance company officials
medical hospital in Riyadh. When we and the patient are puzzled by this. So
on this issue. We observed that the
asked him about the main problems when the doctor prescribes an expensive
majority of the people we spoke to did
facing patients in the area of medical drug, the insurance company refuses on
not want to reveal their names saying
prescriptions, he said: “Not a single the grounds that the same medication
that they do not want to cause problems
month passes without getting non- is available at a lower price, without
with insurance companies, despite our
approval replies from insurance taking into account the effectiveness of
assurance that no particular company
companies for medical prescriptions we the medication and its side effects and
would be blamed.
advice our patients. Thus, we bear the other considerations,” he said.
We explained to them that we are
burden and costs.” At the children’s clinic in the same
discussing an issue that is causing
He sad he has observed that vitamins, hospital, we met with a pediatrician, who
great imbalance in the field of medical
skin moisturizers and creams - in agreed with the corporate department
insurance and that a dialogue is necessary
general - are not covered by insurance manger’s views. He said: “In addition to
so as to be able to find a solution to
20 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 21
Hot Topic
vitamins, creams and refreshments that to our query regarding this dilemma, he from his own account,” said Dr. Al-Essa. are very important for such a condition, see the insurance representative in the INSURANCE COMPANIES: What do
children need during their early years, said: “We have not received any lists Regarding the possibility of replacing but the insurance companies refuse to hospital who told her that the medicine they say?
which are of course not covered by that categorize covered and uncovered one drug with another that is covered cover them.” in question needed to be approved by To analyze the story from all the sides, we
insurance companies, the parents have drugs, either from the Ministry of Health by insurance, Dr. Al-Essa said: “Some He noted that the same applies to the insurance company. She contacted met Hassan Abu Saud, Director of Medical
to pay for preventive medicines as well, or from the Council of Cooperative drugs are not covered by insurance diabetics who need vitamins for the her insurance company, who two days Policies in the Arabian Shield Insurance
such as for allergies. Parents of children Health Insurance. However, there is a companies and cannot be replaced, such treatment of the retina. In other cases, later, told her that the drug cannot be Company. He explained to us that there
with growth problems who need Vitamin they require double or more vials of cashed in. Because of the high price of are special lists available for all doctors at
D, or X-ray to diagnose their condition the drug itself, which is also refused by the medicine and her inability to pay the Claims departments that identify the
i.e. Osteomalacia, have no option but to
pay for all treatments and tests.”
Hassan Abu soud: There are special lists available insurance companies. “In this case, the
patient has to re-visit his doctor to get
for it, she had to stop the treatment. uncovered drugs. They prepared those
She continues to live in pain day and lists as per their collective experience.
The pediatrician explained: “There for all doctors at the department of the claims that a new prescription, but the insurance night. “Overall, the uncovered drugs are the
is yet another problem when we give identify drugs as covered and not covered. “Overall, company could reject it on the grounds The case of 30-year-old Ruwaida is one that are not registered as a medicine
the prescription. For example, when
a child has two diseases at the same
the drugs are registered with the Ministry of Health that the medication has already been
prescribed, without taking into account
slightly better than that of Nadia. After at the Ministry of Health in addition to
having undergone a dental surgery, the medications that are not covered or
time, we cannot prescribe medications and the Council of Cooperative Health Insurance. the patient’s condition or his need to her doctor prescribed some medicines excluded from the unified policy issued
for both the diseases because the take the medication for long periods of that were not included in her insurance by the Council of Cooperative Health
insurance company would refuse to time. Due to this, many Optometry tests coverage. She called the company, Insurance such as cosmetic medicines,
cover the expenses of one of them. general practice in the insurance sector: as involuntary urination medications get rejected, placing additional burden only to find out that the medicine was herbal medicines, acne and obesity
So we prescribe medication for one psychiatric medications and cosmetic for which there are no alternatives on the patients.” medication, and so on,” said Abu Saud.
disease, then the patient is required to surgeries are not covered by insurance and they are not covered by insurance Asked if the price of the medication
visit again so that he can get the other companies.” companies.” is the reason behind the refusal to cover
prescription. This unnecessary trouble We asked the doctor if there is any At our next stop, the ophthalmology Dr. essa Al-essa: We have not received any lists some medications, he said: “The prices
needs to be avoided as many people coordination between the doctors and clinic, the story repeats itself. The that categorize covered and uncovered drugs, either have nothing to do with the refusal or the
suffer from two diseases or more at a
time.”
representatives of insurance companies.
“There is a coordination official, who tells
ophthalmologist explained: “We live
in a very dry environment; therefore,
from the Ministry of Health or from the Council of acceptance to cover some medications.
It is all based on the medications
We then visited another hospital, us which diseases and cases are covered many people suffer from dry eye Cooperative Health Insurance. However, there is a registered at the Health Ministry and the
which is located in the center of the and which are not. Then, the doctor syndromes, which is one of the most general practice in the insurance sector: psychiatric excluded diseases specified at the unified
capital city of Riyadh, where we met
Dr. Essa Al-Essa, a pediatrician. In reply
explains to the patient that a particular
drug is not covered and that he must pay
common diseases in the Kingdom. The
patient requires refreshments, which
medications and cosmetic surgeries are not covered cooperative health policy. There is a
specific cap to the prices of medicines
by insurance companies. and, if the dosage limit is exceeded, the
insurance company has to approve the
additional dosage or medications.”
INCESSANT SUFFERING indeed not covered. Ruwaida ended The Director of Medical Policies in
Umm Mohammed holds the hand of up paying for the medicine from her the Arabian Shield Insurance Company
her three-year old child and enters a own pocket. added: “In major hospitals there a
hospital in Riyadh. She inquires at the Mohammed Al-Shahri, who works representatives of each insurance
reception about the best pediatricians, as an accountant in one of the private company who has a good experience
and proceeds to see one of them. She sector companies, said that some to solve all the issues and problems that
tells the pediatrician that her son insurance companies refuse to cover could arise between the insurer and the
suffers from involuntary urination. expensive medicines, while others try medical bodies, as when the doctors
The doctor’s response surprised her to evade the chronic and pregnancy tell the patients that they will pay for
when he told her that the prescribed medicines in order to increase their the medications because the insurance
drug is not covered by the insurance profits, even if that is at the expense of company refuses to cover the cost of it.
company, and that she must pay the patients who may not be able to afford The main duty of these representatives is
price of the drug. Astonished, she the costs of the treatment. an extension to the work of the approvals
approached this magazine and agreed Also agreeing with Al-Shahri, and customer service departments in the
to share her story with us. Ayman Abdo recalled his experience: insurance companies.
At another medical center, we met “I was shocked when my insurance Abu Saud urged all doctors in hospitals,
21-year-old Nadia, who suffers from company contacted me to inform clinics and other medical institutions to
severe pain in her joints. She told us that that they will not cover my pregnant be aware of the regulations, articles and
she visited a major hospital in Riyadh wife and that they will not bear the documentations identified by the unified
hoping to permanently say goodbye to costs of her operation or medication policy of the Council of Cooperative
her severe pain. Her doctor prescribed needed for our triplets. They claimed Health Insurance and acquaint
medication that was not covered by that my wife had taken reproductive themselves with what drugs are covered
the insurance company. She went to drugs. I had to pay for everything.” and what are not.
22 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 23
Social Responsiblity
Princess Adela bint Abdullah: The Home Health Care
program comes in view of the growing need for this service in the
Kingdom, which requires high skills to enable nurses to take care of
Bupa Arabia and the National Home Health Care patients in their homes far away from hospitals and health centers.
Foundation in Western Region: This program will also enable trainees to acquire the appropriate
communication skills in dealings with patients and their families, and
Supporting community service expertise to train the members of the family, if needed.
programs In this context,
companies have
many
something of great interest to the
insurance
started
support community service programs-
to
SUPPORTING HOME HEALTH CARE
Given the importance of training
programs for nursing
Arabia has allocated SR0.5 million
staff, Bupa
magazine, which continues to monitor to support the efforts of National Home
The participation of companies and institutions in social responsibility programs the situation in the insurance sector, and Health Care Foundation Western Region
support the initiatives that strengthen in providing training to 30 nurses in home
has become one of the main prerequisites of human development. it. Hence, we are looking for initiatives healthcare annually for three years,
Economic philosopher Adam Smith of the eighteenth century once noted: “The launched by insurance companies, with the priority of registration being
service providers and hospitals that given to Saudi nationals. The nurses
needs and wishes of the community will be best achieved through cooperation between support this trend. will be qualified to provide home
organizations, economic institutions and the community.” In previous issue, we highlighted the healthcare for the needy at the end of the
experience of Dallah Hospital, and in training period.
this issue, we explore the experience of The agreement was signed between
BUPA Arabia for Cooperative Insurance, Bupa Arabia and NHHCF in the
because of the nature and the size of their presence of HRH Princess Adela bint
initiatives, and because it came from an Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, Chairperson of
insurance company. We were keen to National Home Health Care Foundation
shed the light on insurance companies, Western Region.
as they should be at the forefront when it In a press statement, Princess Adela bint
comes to social responsibility. Abdullah said: “As the Kingdom’s
Bupa Arabia is the first Saudi population is increasing steadily, so is
company specialized in the field the number of elderly, mainly because
of medical insurance. The company of availability of high quality medical
has immensely contributed and services, which is something that is
supported community service praiseworthy. Therefore, there is also an
programs and has played an increase in the number of people who
important role in launching social need healthcare in their homes and they
responsibility initiatives. Among these need qualified nurses to take care of
initiatives is the allocation of SR0.5 them.”
million for the National Home Health “The decision of Bupa Arabia to
Care Foundation and organizing generously contribute and support the Bupa Arabia ceO
several health awareness seminars and programs of National Home Health Care
campaigns on topics such as swine flu, Foundation Western Region that aim
tal nazer: We are proud
diabetes, heat stroke and asthma. All at training nurses in home healthcare that Saudis represent
these fall under its program known demonstrates the foresight of its almost half of all our
as “Total Wellness”, which stands in management. Thanks to them, hundreds employees. Localizing our
line with the insurer’s efforts to give of patients will benefit from the services
back to the community it serves in. provided by the Foundation in
manpower is at the core
This is in addition to strengthening its the coming years.” of our strategic planning
partnership with the Human Resources The Princess noted that the training for steady business
Development Fund for the recruitment program will be held four times a growth.
and training of 94 young Saudis. year for three days at King Abdulaziz
24 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 25
Social Responsiblity
A recent research by the BUPA TO TRAINS AND RECRUIT 94 number of job fairs. Most recently, Bupa 2008) as well as the “Fastest Growing
International Agency for Research SAUDIS Arabia participated at the 5th Career Fair Company” in 2009.
on Cancer (IARC) noted that non- As part of its support to Saudization, Bupa at the CBA campus for girls, the CBA “This is the third year in a row that
smokers are exposed to the same Arabia has signed a partnership with the Career Day for males, and the Second the company has been placed in the
carcinogens inhaled by smokers, Human Resources Development Fund Saudi Labor Market Exhibition held top ten. To be placed 4th in a list of
and there are increasing evidences (HRDF) valued at more than SR2.6 million at the Jeddah International Exhibition 500 companies is an honor and I
that passive smoking causes damage to recruit and train 94 male and female Centre. congratulate everyone at Bupa Arabia
to the heart in the short-term and employees for 15 months in various types “We are proud that Saudis represent for their contribution in advancing our
long-term by lowering the natural rate of work within the company. almost half of all our employees,” said position in the top ten,” said Tal Nazer,
of oxygen in the blood. The HRDF is an important link between Tal Nazer, the CEO of Bupa Arabia. the CEO of Bupa Arabia.
job seekers and the private sector, “Localizing our manpower is at the In order to achieve the highest
BUPA ARABIA’S H1N1 AWARENESS playing a proactive role in recruiting core of our strategic planning for standards of Bupa International, all
DRIVE and training Saudi male and female steady business growth and we are fully new employees are required to pass
In their effort to raise more awareness, employees in order to integrate them committed to an ongoing partnership a three-month intensive training
Bupa Arabia recently organized a two- in the national workforce and enabling with HRDF to train and recruit more period conducted by Bupa’s leading
day seminar on the risks of swine flu them to be a part of the Kingdom’s social young male and female Saudis as we experts. The program includes 40
at Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital. The and economic development. continue to expand our operations.” courses run by a team of qualified
seminar entitled ‘Preventing Swine Flu’ The quality of training provided by trainers. When needed, specialists from
is the second of its kind in a series of Bupa Arabia for new employees ensures BUPA RANkS 4TH AMONG THE BEST outside the company help in drafting
seminars aiming to inform corporate that the company’s high standards BUSINESS ENVIRONMENTS and supervising the training.
University in Jeddah. She added that it has
been agreed between the Foundation and
Bupa Arabia has signed employees on preventive measures to are maintained at every level. On Because of its commitment to Bupa Arabia is a pioneer in the
Bupa Arabia to sponsor the program for a partnership with the tackle swine flu. completion of training, the employees provide the best services, the Kingdom’s empowerment of women as it employed
are fully qualified to take up positions in first specialized company in healthcare its first female employee in 2001. Women
three years, thereby providing training Human Resources The seminars are part of Bupa Arabia’s
a variety of departments at Bupa Arabia. insurance, Bupa Arabia, was awarded now make around one third of Bupa
to 90 nurses.” active approach to tackle the viral
She stressed that the program comes in
Development Fund disease by offering guidelines on how to To maximize recruitment opportunities the recognition of being the “Best Arabia’s workforce, which altogether
view of the growing need for this service in (HRDF) valued at more avoid infection and infecting others. It is Bupa Arabia is a regular participant at a Medical Insurance Company” (2006- includes 42 percent Saudi nationals.
the Kingdom, which requires high skills than SR2.6m to recruit also a part of the company’s contribution
to enable nurses to take care of patients as a responsible corporate citizen. It
in their homes far away from hospitals
and train 94 male and supports the efforts of the Ministry of
and health centers. This program will female employees. Health, which has launched a large-
also enable trainees to acquire the scale campaign against swine flu.
appropriate communication skills in
dealings with patients and their families, FIRST AID SEMINARS
and expertise to train the members of ANTI-SMOkING CAMPAIGN In partnership with the Saudi Red
the family, if needed. The Princess said As part of its social responsibility programs, Crescent Authority, Bupa Arabia has
that NHHCF makes sure that the Saudi Bupa Arabia has organized a series organized a series of first aid seminars for
Commission for Health Specialties of seminars highlighting the dangers its members in Riyadh, Jeddah and Al-
recognizes all of its training programs. of passive smoking on co-workers. In Khobar. The seminars aim to spread first
For his part, Tal Nazer, the CEO of collaboration with the National Bank, aid literacy throughout the Kingdom.
Bupa Arabia, stressed on the importance the company organized a seminar on A wider knowledge of first aid could
of providing training programs ways to quit smoking for the staff of the save thousands of lives in Saudi Arabia
for nurses, saying: “NHHCF has a leading National Bank in Riyadh, Al-Khobar each year. This is why Bupa Arabia has
role in the field of home healthcare in the and Jeddah. Through these seminars, been organizing these seminars for its
Kingdom and it also has a long history of Bupa Arabia aims to promote a culture members. One of Bupa Arabia’s prime
successful programs. For years, it was able of “Prevention is better than cure” as objectives is to establish a culture of
to alleviate the sufferings of many patients, one of the most important goals that it awareness in Saudi Arabia.
improve the quality of life of those in aspires to achieve, aiming to enlighten on The members receive practical as well
need of special care in their places of the range of ways to get rid of nicotine as theoretical training on how to respond
residence, and provide them with medical addiction in general. to respiratory, cardiac and environmental
care and service, social support and health It is well-known that passive smoking emergencies. The training also includes
education.” in the workplace causes many serious cardiopulmonary resuscitation as well
“That’s why Bupa Arabia decided to health effects. Moreover, the inhalation as the treatment of burns, poisoning,
support National Home Health Care of cigarette smoke can cause many fractures and bleeding. All participants
Foundation Western Region and its serious diseases, both in the short-term are made to undergo an exam at the end
important project,” he added. and long-term. of the seminars.
26 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 27
Cover Story
This new strategy has resulted in many Revision (ICD-10) is a coding of diseases
benefits, which include, the improvement and signs, symptoms, abnormal findings,
of healthcare services provided to complaints, social circumstances and
patients in health centers and clinics, external causes of injury or diseases, as
an increased efficiency of services, and classified by the World Health Organization
improvement in the level of supervision (WHO). The system is updated every ten
using sophisticated methods for the years and the current version is number
exchange of health information, including ten, and is known as ICD-10, which is
the use of International Classification of translated into 42 languages. There are
Diseases (ICD), specifically the Australia also customized ICD versions depending
version (ICD-10-AM) for diseases on the needs of each country.
and therapeutic interventions (AR- The code set allows more than 14,400
DRG) coding. As confirmed by Dr. Yacoub different codes and permits the tracking of
Ben Youssef Al Mazrou’, the Secretary many new diagnoses, diseases and signs,
General of Health Services Council who
Dr. Al Mazroue: The symptoms, abnormal findings, complaints,
stated that as per of Council’s vision to Health Services Council social circumstances and external causes
strengthen coordination and integration signed an agreement of injury or diseases. Using optional sub
between the health authorities in the classifications, the codes can be expanded
Kingdom to ensure access to quality
to use the International to over 14,000 codes. Using codes that
healthy services, the Health Services Classification of Diseases are meant to be reported in a separate data
Council signed an agreement to use the field, the level of detail that is reported
International Classification of Diseases by ICD can be further increased, using a
(the Tenth Australian version and related in using electronic smart health cards and simplified multiracial approach.
health problems) known as (ICD-10- digital imaging, which aim to improve the WHO provides detailed information
AM-AR-DRGs) with the representative communication process with patients. about ICD online, and makes available
of the health sector of the Australian Successive developments in the a set of materials online, such as an
Commonwealth Government. He Kingdom’s health sector meant that there ICD-10 online browser, ICD10 Training,
added new version will be applied in is an urgent need to implement a system ICD-10 online training and study guide
all health sectors in Saudi Arabia as this of medical coding and linking it to the materials for download. The international
classification considered one of the best electronic systems of other hospitals version of ICD should not be confused
systems in place worldwide. The Council and medical centers. Moreover, training with national Clinical Modifications of
has also formed a National Committee the medical personnel in the use of the ICD that include much more details,
to oversee the implementation of the coding system has become one of the and sometimes has separate sections for
International Classification of Diseases most important priorities of hospitals and procedures. For example, the new US
ICD-10 Medical Coding
as per the decision of the Minister of medical centers in the Kingdom. ICD-10 CM has some 155,000 codes.
Health and Chairman of the Council. The Work on ICD-10 began in 1983 and was
committee includes representatives from THE INTERNATIONAL completed in 1992.
all sectors providing health services in
CLASSIFICATION OF DISEASES (ICD)
the Kingdom including the public and EARLIER CLASSIFICATIONS
The International Statistical Classification
private sectors. We find out what the Sir George Knibbs, the eminent Australian
towards Increased efficiency and
of Diseases and Related Health
medical coding system is all about, and statistician, credited François Bossier
Problems 10th
how it works in the current setup. de Lacroix (1706-1777), better known
In view of the rapid developments as Sauvages, with
cooperation
in information technology and
communications, many countries are
competing with each other in providing
the best health services by improving
performance and enhancing medical
services. One of the most important
Under the guidance of the Minister of Health Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabiah, services in this regard is e-health,
President of (CCHI), The Council of Health Services in Saudi Arabia has which allows hospitals and doctors to
use the latest methods of information
implemented a medical coding system in order to benefit from modern and communication technology in
technology in managing health insurance. The system links the health various areas, including collecting,
insurance companies, council of health services and the Council of storing, retrieving and analysing health
information, standardizing electronic
Cooperative Health Insurance (CCHI). health records, disseminating medical
information and conducting remote
surgical operations. E-health also helps
28 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 29
Cover Story
the first attempt to classify diseases causes of death, because of the difficulties and should be settled immediately. Both many health management uses and
systematically. Sauvages’ comprehensive of classification. Fortunately for the nomenclature and statistical classification clinical use. These include the analysis of Table 1 demonstrates the different phases of the ICD classification
treatise was published under the title progress of preventive medicine, the received constant study and consideration the general health situation of population
‘Nosologia Methodica’. At the beginning General Register Office of England and by Farr in his annual “Letters” to the groups and monitoring of the incidence
17th century John Graunt Classify death rates by cause of death
of the 19th century, the classification of Wales, at its inception in 1837, found in Registrar General published in the Annual and prevalence of diseases and other
disease in most general use was one by William Farr (1807-1883) its first medical Reports of the Registrar General. health problems in relation to other
William Cullen (1710-1790), of Edinburgh, statistician to make the best possible use The utility of a uniform classification of variables such as the characteristics and 18th century Sauvages Nosologia Methodica
which was published in 1785 under the of the imperfect classifications of disease causes of death was strongly recognized at circumstances of the individuals affected,
title ‘Synopsis Nosologiae Methodicae’. available at the time, but labored to secure the first International Statistical Congress, reimbursement, resource allocation, Form an international list of causes
1853 William Farr
For all practical purposes, however, the better classifications and international held in Brussels in 1853. The Congress quality and guidelines. of death
statistical study of disease began a century uniformity in their use. requested William Farr and Marc d’Espine It is also used to classify diseases and
earlier with the work of John Graunt on Farr found the classification of Cullen in to prepare an internationally applicable other health problems recorded on many Jacques Bertillon, President of the
1893 Bertillon classification
the London Bills of Mortality. The kind of use in the public services of his day. It had classification of causes of death. At the types of health and vital records including statistical services in Paris
classification envisaged by this pioneer not been revised to embody the advances next Congress, in Paris in 1855, Farr death certificates and health records.
Organization of the League of
is exemplified by his attempt to estimate of medical science, nor was it deemed and d’Espine submitted two separate These records also provide the basis for 1920 Classification of causes of death
Nations
the proportion of live born children who by him to be satisfactory for statistical lists, which were based on very different the compilation of national mortality and
WHO became responsible for the
died before reaching the age of six years. purposes. In the first Annual Report of principles. Farr’s classification was morbidity statistics by WHO member
revision and ongoing publication of the
He took all deaths classed as thrush, the Registrar General, he discussed the arranged under five groups: epidemic states. 1948 World Health Organization
classification after the sixth issue, which
convulsions, rickets, teeth and worms, principles that should govern a statistical diseases, constitutional (general) diseases, The classifications also enable the
included causes of diseases
abortives, chrysomes, infants, liver-grown classification of disease and urged the local diseases arranged according to storage and retrieval of diagnostic
and overlaid, and added to them half the adoption of a uniform classification. anatomical site, developmental diseases, information for clinical, epidemiological 1975 World Health Organization ICD-9
deaths classed as smallpox, swinepox, A uniform statistical nomenclature, and diseases that are the direct result of and quality purposes. One simple example
measles, and worms without convulsions. however is not perfect, as each disease violence. D’Espine classified diseases is that the ICD-10 codes will let doctors 1994 World Health Organization ICD-10
Despite the crudity of this classification, has, in many instances, been denoted by according to their nature (gouty, herpetic, say whether a condition occurred on a
his estimate of a 36 percent mortality three or four terms, and each term has haematic, etc.). The Congress adopted patient’s left or right side. ICD allows for
2007 World Health Organization Latest version
before the age of six years appears from been applied to as many different diseases. a compromise list of 139 rubrics that more detail on patients’ medical records,
later evidence to have been a good one. Vague and inconvenient names have been represented the two scientists’ works. thereby, keeping up with the many ways
The three centuries have contributed employed, or complications have been In 1864, this classification was revised in medical care evolves each year.
something to the scientific accuracy of registered instead of primary diseases. The Paris on the basis of Farr’s model and was
disease classification, although many nomenclature is of as much importance subsequently further revised in 1874, 1880, PAPER AND ELECTRONIC SySTEMS
had doubted the usefulness of attempts in this department of inquiry as weights and 1886. Although this classification was Many countries around the world are
to compile statistics of disease, or even and measures in the physical sciences, never universally accepted, the general trying to replace traditional paper health
arrangement proposed by Farr, including records with the more convenient
the principle of classifying diseases by electronic systems. Electronic health
anatomical site, survived as the basis of records are one of the most important and
the International List of Causes of Death. sophisticated health systems that allow
doctors and medical centers to retrieve
THE CURRENT ICD information and patient data electronically
ICD-10 was endorsed by the 43rd in the easiest and most effective way. It
World Health Assembly in May 1990 also helps to identify patients’ needs, and
and came into use in WHO member offers comprehensive medical reports
states from 1994. The classification is the that include the medical history of the
latest in a series, which has its origins in patient, medicines, X-ray, labs and sick
the 1850s. The International Statistical leave, which will help in dispensing many
Institute adopted the first edition, known sections in the health sectors, such as
as the International List of Causes of department of medical reports. E-health
Death, in 1893. The WHO took over the records will save time and money in terms
responsibility for the ICD after its creation of the number of employees, which will
in 1948. The World Health Assembly ultimately result in huge revenues to the
adopted in 1967 the WHO Nomenclature health care sector, which remains under
Regulations that stipulate use of ICD in constant pressure to provide high quality ICD-10 is a coding of diseases and signs,
its most current revision for mortality and
morbidity statistics by all member states.
health services for low costs.
Raising community awareness of the symptoms, abnormal findings, complaints,
SIGNIFICANCE OF ICD
importance of information technology
in the health sector, and its active role in
social circumstances and external causes of
The ICD is the international standard enhancing efficiency and improving the injury or diseases
diagnostic classification for all general quality of health services is one of the
epidemiological purposes, as well as most urgent issues requiring a good deal
of attention presently.
30 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 31
Interview
In this issue of the Cooperative Health Insurance Magazine, we meet with Dr.
Rashid Bin Suleiman Bin Rashid Al-Rashid Alhomaid, Vice Chancellor of King Saud bin
Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences - Postgraduate Studies and the former Secretary
General of the Council of Cooperative Health Insurance (CCHI). Dr. Al-Rashid Alhomaid
emphasizes that healthcare services in the Kingdom are at par with those in the developed
countries, noting that when the CCHI was first established, it took some time and effort to
make the society accept its role as a regulator and supervisor of this sector.
Commenting on insurance policies, he idea of having a health insurance regulator
stressed that they meet the needs and supervisor. This was not easy; it needed
of business owners, and that the goals a lot of time and effort. The employees
of the Council have not changed; only were basically selected on the basis of their
the methods needed to reach them have. educational qualifications, experience in
At the academic level, Dr. Al-Rashid the areas of public health insurance, their
Alhomaid, who is the first Saudi to have willingness to learn and progress, and the
a specialization in the digestive system capacity for collective action.
and liver from Canada, notes that the King I think this insurance policy
Q: Did the Council’s goals change since
Saud University for Health Sciences is the
first specialized health university in the its establishment until now?
meets the needs of the
region. He added that the establishment of A: The goals are still the same, little has employers and gives the
changed, but because of the changing
the King Abdullah International Medical
Research is an indication of the importance circumstances and data, the working
workers the opportunity to
of scientific research in the Kingdom. methods have changed in order to avail the best healthcare
conform to the new realities.
Q: Please enlighten us about the early
services.
stages of the inception of the CCHI. Q: What do you think of the current
A: The CCHI was established under health insurance system, which covers
the health insurance system upon the both the Saudi nationals as well as non-
decision of the Council of Ministers No. Saudi employees in the private sector? King Saud bin Abdulaziz
71 dated 4/27/1420, corresponding to 8
Nov. 1999, in order to preserve the rights
Do you think more categories should be
included?
University for Health
of the workers in the Kingdom and to A: The current development of the health Sciences is the first
shoulder the responsibility of regulating
and supervising the health insurance
insurance system to cover both Saudi and
non-Saudi employees is an important
specialized healthcare
DR. RAsHID Al-RAsHID AlHOMAID THE FORMER SECRETARY GENERAL OF (CCHI): sector. milestone. I suggest that we should university in the region.
now focus on improving healthcare
Healthcare services in KSA
Q: What were the main issues you had services for the target group until the
to deal with at the time of its setting up insurance process has fully matured. As
and how did you choose the staff? for the expansion and addition of other
A: Establishing a body like the CCHI was categories, we will first conduct scientific
not a familiar thing in the Kingdom then, studies on them and then decide
at par with those in developed countries: especially with the absence of qualified accordingly.
staff, which was the most difficult
challenge we had to face. We were Q: What do you think of the current
first required to provide training to the insurance policy?
employees and implement appropriate A: I think this insurance policy meets
rules to organize the flow of work. the needs of the employers and gives the
Initially, we focused on how to make the workers the opportunity to avail the best
public and private institutions accept the healthcare services.
32 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 33
Interview
modern and sophisticated curriculums the support of my wife, who has
and rely on the latest technologies in always encouraged me and provided
psychological and social support that
the field of learning, education and
health training. helped me complete my studies and ABOUT DR. AL-RASHID ALHOMAID
training in Canada.
Q: When was the University Dr. Rashid Bin Suleiman Bin Rashid Al-Rashid Alhomaid is the
established and what are the faculties Q: Tell us more about your education Vice Chancellor of King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health
and courses available? and professional experience. Sciences - Postgraduate Studies. He holds an American Board
A: The University was established in A: I graduated from Cairo University and Canadian Fellowship. Dr. Al-Rashid Alhomaid is Professor of
2005, along with the launch of the in 1977 and was appointed as a Internal Medicine and digestive system since 1998 and a consultant
College of Nursing and Medicine. lecturer in the Department of Internal
since 1986. He is also the Chairman of the Scientific Council of
We have 10,000 students in Riyadh, Medicine, Faculty of Medicine at
King Saud University. Then I went to the University of King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health
4,000 in Jeddah and 3,000 in Al-
Canada to complete my studies and Sciences, Chairman of a training committee to develop Health
Ahsa. Moreover, we have medical
schools in both Riyadh and Jeddah, training and returned home in 1986 Affairs’ staff at the National Guard and Chairman of the Training and
and nursing colleges in Riyadh, Jeddah with a degree in Internal Medicine, Fellowships for Health Affairs and the University of King Saud bin
and Al-Ahsa. In addition to this, there with specialization in the digestive Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences.
is a College of Dentistry, College of system and liver. I was the first Saudi
His contributions to King Saud University include: member of the
Pharmacy and College of Applied to have specialization from Canada.
Scientific Council (2007), member of the Council of the Deanship of
Health Sciences. Graduate Studies (2006-2007), founder of the Faculty of Medicine
Q: Please tell us more about your
family. for University Hospitals (1997-2000), Head of Internal Medicine
Q: What is the significance of
A: I have – by God’s grace – five College (1993-1997), Chairman of the Internal Medicine Training
choosing the National Guard as the
University’s headquarters? children. My older son is a lecturer Committee (1993-1997), and in-charge of internal medicine training
at the Faculty of Medicine and he is programs (1987-1993).
A: The Health Affairs in the National
completing his studies in Canada in In the Council of Cooperative Health Insurance, he served as the
Guard have a long experience in
Ophthalmology; my second daughter
training programs and in conducting founding Secretary-General of the Secretariat of the Council between
has a master’s degree from the United
medical education because of the 2000 and 2005, in addition to his member of the Board of The
States and she has recently given
presence of high-level hospitals and General Organization for Social Insurance Council during the same
birth to our first grandchild; my third
experienced doctors in addition to
daughter is a lecturer at the Faculty of period. During 1994 to 2003, he was the founder and President of
quality services. The establishment
Administrative Sciences - Department the Scientific Board of Medicine - Internal Medicine and member of
Q: The implementation of the mandatory Q: As a doctor and an academic, how of a health university needs such
of Economics; I have a son studying the Executive Board of the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties.
health insurance has placed an added do you rate the Saudi medical sector features, which are only available at
in the high school, and my youngest Dr. Al-Rashid Alhomaid was also a member of the first session
pressure on the private health sector. and how can it emulate the medical the National Guard.
daughter is studying in primary
What can be done about it? standards in developed countries? of the Health Services Council and a member of the Board of
school.
A: The pressure on the private health A: The healthcare sector in the Q: Why is research a key element of Directors of King Fahd Medical City during the period 2004-2009.
sector shows the success of the CCHI Kingdom can be compared to that the health sector? He is a member of the Arab Council for Medical Specialties/Internal
Q: What are your hobbies?
in providing healthcare to workers in in developed countries, and to some A: Development of scientific research Medicine, and founder and board member of the Saudi Society
A: I love reading, travelling and meeting
the private sector. The private health extent, it has an edge over them. The is the foundation of healthcare. The
people from different civilizations and for the Digestive System (2004-2009). He co-examined in Internal
sector will grow and gradually it will need to develop the health sector University has encouraged all colleges
cultures. Medicine in Saudi medical schools and postgraduate studies,
meet the public’s needs, build strong continues in order to provide the best to introduce scientific research in their
expertise and achieve the aspirations healthcare services. The expectations curriculums and programs. There is faculties of medicine at the University of Jordan University of
of the community. no doubt that the establishment of the Q: What is your favourite quote? Science and Technology in Yemen.
of the Saudi community from the
King Abdullah International Medical A: It is not a quote, it is a verse from the Among his many credentials, Dr. Al-Rashid Alhomaid holds
health sector are high and this proves
Research emphasizes the importance Holy Qur’an, where Almighty Allah
Q: Given the experiences of developed the success of the Kingdom’s health an Arab Specialty Certificate /Internal Medicine, Saudi Specialty
of scientific research for the University says: “Woe unto the defrauders, those
countries in the provision of health sector. Certificate/Internal Medicine, Pakistani Fellowship/Internal Medicine,
and the country, at large. who when they take the measure from
services, what more does Saudi Arabia mankind demand it full, but if they Egyptian Fellowship/Internal Medicine, and Saudi Specialty
need to do to reach their level? Q: What makes king Saud University
measure unto them or weigh for them, Certificate for the digestive system and liver.
A: Saudi Arabia has a free economy. There for Health Sciences different from Q: What prompted you to choose this
they cause them loss.” At the level of scientific activity, he has published 73 research
is no doubt that many businessmen will other places offering similar academic specialty?
be able to meet the health needs based A: Healthcare is a noble humanitarian papers in both local and international medical journals, lectured in
programs? Q: Thank you sir. What are your final
on economic feasibility studies. I expect A: King Saud bin Abdulaziz University service. The ability to help people 35 conferences locally and regionally, and attended 55 conferences
and the society’s perception of the comments?
to see a steady growth in the health for Health Sciences is the first and workshops at local, regional and international levels. He also
importance of this speciality prompted A: I would like to thank and express
insurance sector and an expansion of specialized healthcare university in the worked as an external arbitrator to Saudi medical journals, and an
me to choose medicine. My father – appreciation for all the brothers at the
the private health sector facilities. I also region. We are interested in making arbitrator for academic promotions in Saudi universities.
may God have mercy on him – was CCHI for their tremendous efforts. I
expect an increase in the number and our students acquire the ability to learn
my biggest supporter, and now I have pray to God to guide them always.
quality of advanced healthcare services. and excel, and therefore, we provide
34 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 35
Finance & Investment
Although insurance companies are
known for their risky elements as the
chances of facing losses are much
higher when compared to retail and
commercial activities, this is not exactly
the case in Saudi Arabia. Saudi insurance
companies do face losses, but these
losses are not directly related to the
typical risks in this sector and instead
are a result of something else.
It is important to find out the actual
reasons behind the huge losses in the
insurance sector and what can insurance
companies do to cover these losses and
budget deficits.
Many reasons for losses
According to insurance experts, there
are many reasons why Saudi insurers Al-Faris: Controlled Al Omran: The reasons
incur losses. Perhaps, the most important
reason is the lack of knowledge and
Tawarruq is a good Islamic behind losses are related
experience in this field, as many alternative that could help to the incompletion of
companies suffer from the shortage of in resolving budget deficit. insurance portfolios¹
qualified personnel to run the business
efficiently and professionally.
However, there are many transfer, weak operating
The market abounds in companies other options that should income and difficulties in
that do not know exactly what they are be addressed as well. marketing.
doing. For example, some insurance
companies may insure some risks without
understanding the possible risks and
suffer massive losses they cannot bear,
especially that many companies do not SAMA’s approval and be able to market related to the incompletion of insurance
understand the benefits of re-insurance. their insurance products. portfolios’ transfer,weakoperatingincome,
The second reason for losses incurred The domination of major insurance difficulties in marketing – in light of the
by insurance companies lies in the companies in the Saudi insurance market fierce competition between insurance
lack of qualified human resources and is also trimming down opportunities for companies – and the unreasonably high
Controlling deficit and dealing with losses efficient management, with a constant other small companies. The insurance expenses and operating costs.
Borrowing, merging
consumption of the capital without any sector is a risk sector, where one year a Dr. Khalid Al-Faris, Assistant General
material return to offset this shortfall. company could suffer a loss, but it could Manager of Falcon Insurance, says:
Moreover, many companies fail also make profit the second year; which “Most insurance companies re-
to promote their insurance products means you can never expect an all-year evaluate all their policies and previous
or innovating are the options
in the market, or they are unable to profit from the insurance sector. plans to discover any shortcomings and
compete with other insurance products Insurance specialists also point reasons behind lower profits or losses.”
due to a lack of human and material out that the most influential reason He adds: “Most losses are related to the
resources, the inefficiency of technical behind the losses is fraud (from expenses incurred by companies before
management or unsuccessful marketing clients), as it causes substantial the incorporation, the competition and
campaigns. Some insurance companies damages to insurance companies the need to achieve large premium
cut down their activities after obtaining and affects their image in the market, volumes, and due to a lack of qualified
The insurance sector is considered as the main pillar in the global economy the necessary license to practice the especially with a lack of knowledge personnel and advanced IT systems to
and equity markets. However, it continues to witness difficulties in the Arab insurance business because they are and expertise in dealing with provide information and daily reports.”
market, specifically in Saudi Arabia, mainly because of the modest capitals and the unable to attract new customers. fraud issues. Al-Omran argues that the main
Some experts suggest that one of the causes of the huge losses are related
recent entry in the Saudi stock market. These reasons placed some of the insurance reasons behind the losses may be the Marketing difficulties and fierce to the exaggeration in the estimates
companies in a critical position and weakened their impact in the stock market and rules and regulations in force that are competition of feasibility studies at the time of the
the economic sector in general. endorsed by the Saudi Arabian Monetary Some insurance companies, since their establishment of these companies,
Agency (SAMA) as many companies are inception, have budget deficits. The especially those studies that are related
forced to spend large part of their capital reasons, according to economist to market size and expected growth
on the operating expenses to obtain Mohammed bin Fahd Al-Omran, are rates.
36 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 37
“Some founders of insurance companies Al-Faris added: “Controlled Tawarruq is a high because of the novelty of the insurance
clearly exploit the rest of the founding good Islamic alternative that could help in sector, the lack of sophisticated IT systems
shareholders, this is a problem. Others resolving budget deficit. However, there and the delay in application of the most-
do not activate the compulsory health are many other options that should be needed regulations.
insurance in the required and declared addressed as well.” Luay Abdo, an insurance
form, taking advantage of the ill-informed Al-Omran does not think that integration expert, said the newly-established
Saudi society,” he explained. would be an appropriate solution because companies must stabilize in the third
Al-Omran said that the most important of the different structure and infrastructure year of operation because “their
steps taken by insurance company to of integrated companies, and the lack of losses during the first two years are
reduce the losses should include reducing vertical or horizontal integration among natural and logical”.
the operating expenses, and concentrating firms. Therefore, the available options are He emphasized in an interview with
on specific sectors, products, or markets either borrowing or issuing of liquidation CNBC Arabia TV channel that the
until things settle down, and they have a rights. number of insurance companies in
clearer short-term vision. Commenting on the role of SAMA Saudi Arabia (35) is too high compared
“Some insurance companies have and the Council of Cooperative Health to the size of the insurance and financial
issued priority rights in order to strengthen Insurance (CCHI), Al-Omran emphasizes market in Saudi Arabia, which has
its capitalization. However, this option that both organizations have nothing to only 13 banks. Abdo expressed his
will not be available to all companies that do with the situation. “We must keep in surprise at the fact that some insurance
incur losses; which means they should mind that insurance companies are, in companies expect to achieve an income of
consider the option of reducing expenses fact, public joint stock companies, with one billion riyals after the first and second
as a strategic choice,” he added. shareholders and boards of directors who years of operation, while the total size
are the decision-makers first and foremost of the insurance market is estimated at
Proposed solutions and have to solve the problems of their SR15 billion.
There are many solutions when it comes companies.”
to dealing with budget deficits. This Disagreeing with Al-Omran, Al-Faris SR535.9 million in profit
includes increasing the capital, either by said: “SAMA and the A recent study conducted by “Arqam”
borrowing or subtracting new shares or CCHI must intervene to make sure all Website on the financial results of
selling part of the assets. Some companies companies are committed to the declared insurance companies in Saudi Arabia in
prefer to re-evaluate their capital to avoid standards and procedures. If a company the first nine months of 2010 revealed that
losses, an option preferred by the Capital continues to repeat its mistakes, or its the consolidated earnings of 23 insurance Combi
Market Authority. Other options include management failed to have a clear policy companies listed in the Saudi market ning Pea ry..
ce of Mind & Pro rvice Delive
the integration with a company or other for development, growth and profitability, amounted to SR 535.9 million, an increase
companies to strengthen the position of
the new company.
then the relevant authorities should have
a say.”
of 130 percent compared to SR232.5
million in the same period last year.
fessional Se
The study pointed to a rise in total
“I believe that the regulations and instructions premiums of insurance companies that
started their operations, to reach SR9.88
issued by SAMA will have a positive impact, God billion by the end of September 2010,
willing, on our profits in 2010,” Al- Faris. achieving an increase of 34 percent
compared to SR7.38 billion in the same
period last year. During the first half of
Between borrowing, integration and Commenting on Falcon Insurance, Al- this year, insurance companies incurred
other practical solutions, Al-Faris prefers Faris said that the company did not incur claims of SR3.99 billion, an increase of 43
integration. He says: “Integration is the losses, but experienced a decrease in the percent during the same period last year.
best option because borrowing will not level of profits in 2009 “because of the The registered insurance companies
solve the problems or the causes that led pre-incorporation expenses, which were achieved a surplus from insurance
to losses, and may perhaps lead to more very high. I believe that the regulations operations after discarding the returns
losses and increase the burden on the and instructions issued by SAMA will on investments amounting to SR577.8
shareholders. As a result, the company have a positive impact, God willing, on million, up 100 percent from the surplus
may leave the market because of its our profits in 2010.” during the same period of 2009.
inability to fulfil its financial obligations In a related context, recent studies Finally, some failed insurance
resulting from the borrowing policy.” revealed that medical insurance companies may end their series of losses
He noted that there are other good companies are incurring annual losses of by offering new and innovative insurance
options as well, which include: Islamic SR1.2 billion because of “fraud”, noting products, which would add new quality to
Tawarruq, buying goods with a delayed that most fraud cases are reported from this sector, and may pave the way for more
payment and then selling it to other than remote hospitals. According to Al-Hayat competition. This can help companies in
the seller (from whom one bought the newspaper, insurance experts believe changing the course of their losses and
goods) in order to obtain cash money. the rates of fraud in medical insurance are may lead them to profitability.
38 Muharram | January 2011
Safar 1432 1432 | December 2010
Tech world
Thanks to this new technology, viewers to roam between 500 channels, by
Interactive TV:
will have to no more wait for their favorite choosing from a drop-down list that
TV show as they can simply choose when displays all the available programs, as
to watch the show, or even to re-broadcast is the case with the personal computer.
a snapshot or a scene they missed. The So instead of waiting for the date
interactive technology does not stop specified by the channel to watch
The World at Your Fingertips
here; it offers special programming, news,
home shopping, video-on-demand and
a specific program, the viewer can
watch the program in a manner that is
ITV offers special
home banking. No wonder it has been similar to downloading it on his PC – programming, news,
described by an international expert as by connecting the TV with satellite or home shopping, video-
“the technology that brought the world to
the hands of the recipient.”
cable service.
Moreover, viewers will be able to
on-demand and home
banking. No wonder it
Interactive TV, or ITV, a term we often hear these days, is a technology that allows the As a mass communication device,
television succeeded in winning over
review different program categories,
such as children’s programs, science has been described by
viewer to interact with the television set in ways other than simply controlling the channel. radios, newspapers, magazines and fiction movies, documentaries,
an international expert
books. Combining “audio and visual” sports and comedy shows. One other
ITV allows the viewer to act as his own editor-in-chief by being able to select to view a film aspects with the joy of movement and characteristic of this technology is that as “the technology
or a soap opera, entertainment or educational program, sports, news, or play games, vote multiple colors, no invention during the there are many TV channels that have that brought the world
or provide other immediate feedback, and shop from home.
twentieth century has so far been able to
match that of the television. The TV has
designed detailed lists of their programs
so that the viewer is able to register for
to the hands of the
already secured a wide range of loyal a certain show and display another, or recipient.”
viewers who are yet to replace it with see two programs at the same time.
anything else.
Like any other device, television too THE HISTORy
has gone through many rapid changes The history of interactive TV reveals
since the last century. If we compare that the concept remained a dream
present day television with that of the for many years before it was actually
fifties, we find that it now features brighter launched. The idea of ITV appeared
colors, higher resolutions, larger screen for the first time in the early sixties. It
size, better sound and lighter weight, continued to develop year after year
until it reached an even greater stage until the invention of computer, and
of sophistication with the launch of the the emergence of the Internet, which Interactive TV may
Interactive TV. opened doors for the development of
TV sets are now going through ITV and helped turn the dream into a
substitute lecture
revolutionary changes since their inception reality. halls, and enable the
in terms of the commercial and technical At the end of the first half of the last students to listen to the
aspects. Many IT companies have century, people were talking about
designed new computing applications a future TV that can integrate a range
professor and watch
and advanced communications to re- of services such as movies, radio and him from the comfort of
manufacture this device and make it a television programs. However, what their homes, or record
totally new interactive tool that is able actually materialized during that
to connect us with an abundance of new period is the traditional television that
lectures and listen to
services. we know of today, where the viewer them later
Interactive TV goes beyond just can only receive information from the
watching your favorite programs broadcaster.
according to a pre-set schedule; it allows One of the major milestones in
you to choose what you want to see and the history of the development of
when you want to see it. Viewers can interactive television is the decision
even modify the schedule of the program of “Warner Amex Cube” Ohio, US,
to suit their own schedules and personal in 1977 to develop a dual system
preferences. that allowed for the establishment of
a “dialogue” between the receiver
MAIN CHARACTERISTIC and the cable network by linking the
The main characteristic of ITV is that central computer with the head office,
it provides the viewer the opportunity called as interactive communication.
40 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 41
Tech world
The company created a device that you have many options to choose with common interests or goals on
connects the domestic television with from, including: electronic money, The main obstacles television, using “yoyo” service offered
a set of buttons enabling viewers while credit cards, electronic bank checks facing ITV is the by Static Channel. The participants can
watching programs to vote or give and electronic wallet.
feedback (yes or no), in addition to
absence of legislation send their personal details to create
a profile and they can also record a
choosing programs, films and games. 3- ADS: and laws governing the voice message for a period of thirty
Following this step, cable companies Ads on ITV aim at urging the consumer process of subscription seconds. Users can then communicate
started to provide viewers with to know more about those goods and
new interactive technology called products. These ads appear while
to this service or with people they like through this
service or by an e-mail. Soon, viewers
the remote control unit, or “remote the viewer is watching his favorite censoring content. will be able to touch the screen when
control”, which embodied the primary programs without stopping the show they want to see or change programs
forms of interaction with the TV and for a commercial break. If the viewer or services.
helped in increasing the number of TV wants to know more about the
channels. product, he/she ZOOM IN AND OUT
can choose the Known as Interactive Sports, or
SERVICES product he/she interactive point of view, among
InteractiveTV provides many advantages wants using a other names, this service allows
to its user, such as, participating in quiz remote control. viewers who are interested in sports
programs, communication between the programs to choose the camera angle
viewers in a way similar to chat services 4 - Electronic he/she prefers to watch his favorite
on the Internet, video on demand and Program Guide: game from. He/she can also split the
other benefits that continue to dazzle This service screen into several parts; each part
us day after day. allows the showing a snapshot from a different
viewers to choose angle. This feature allows the viewers
1 - Video on-demand: from different to zoom in and out, expand the
This system allows users to select and interactive TV screen width, and review different
watch/listen to video or audio content programs and roam scenes.
on demand at any time at home between different
without the need to go to video stores channels, and pay EDUCATIONAL TELEVISION
and rent films and tapes using a cable for the programs of There is no doubt that interactive TV
or satellite. their choice. There
are many types of
The idea of ITV appeared for the first time in the will open up new vistas for distance
education. This technique may
2 - Commercial TV: developed electronic early sixties. It continued to develop year after substitute lecture halls, and enable the
The present embodiment of interactive applications that provide year until the invention of computer, and the students to listen to the professor and
TV is led by corporations because the
initial target of all commercial television
a presentation of web
pages.
emergence of the Internet, which opened doors for watch him from the comfort of their
homes, or record lectures and listen to
networks is to urge the viewer to see the development of ITV and helped turn the dream them later.
their ads. It is not in their economic 5 - Text messaging: into a reality.
interests to divert the attention of Text messages are OBSTACLES AND COMPETITION
viewers to other interactive activities texts written on 5 - Sports and multiple cameras: television. In 2001, the British Sky The main obstacles facing ITV is
unless they get additional revenue from the television and The interactive system allows the Sport Channel initiated a merger the absence of legislation and laws
those activities. broadcasted directly viewers to select between various between local sports and computer governing the process of subscription
As a result, e-commerce from the sending applications. During the Wimbledon games, thus, making the games to this service or censoring content.
applications through the TV allow station; it appears Tennis Championship in 2001, BBC experience even more exciting. The service represents a revolution in
viewers to buy goods, commodities at the bottom of the broadcasted footages from five different Launched in October 2001, the new the technology world. However,
and products seen on television. screen and displays games through its digital satellite. The game allowed the viewers to predict it provides many investment
With interactive TV, e-commerce is sports news, politics, five matches appeared on one screen and the best and worst players during a opportunities for companies which
taking a new form, for example, you stock market, currency rates viewers were able to choose the game football game. are competing to attract more viewers.
can take a virtual tour of a clothing and new TV programs. It is they wanted to see in a full screen mode. Millions of people all over the world are
store, and use your remote control as also possible to use the texts as Viewers were also able to switch between 7 – AIR CHAT: or will be benefiting from the services
a camera to move around and look titles at the bottom of the screen games using the remote control. Interactive television has reached a of interactive television, announcing
for something you like, then, you can to pop up during programs to point where it has been able to merge their entry into a new era of modern
click on an image to see the details announce an important event or 6- COMPUTER GAMES: technologies of both the television and technology that will change the way
(type of fabrics, sizes, colors, price, provide a summary of the most Games are one of the most attractive the telephone. Users in Britain can they look at television and electronic
etc.). If you decide to buy the item, important news. services in the field of interactive now interact and chat with people devices.
42 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 43
Reports and Analysis
Insurance Companies’ Profit Insurance Companies’ Premiums
Average of Retention Rate
(Million riyal) (Million riyal)
SR 535.9 million profit
First nine months First nine months Insurance Subscribed Premiums
Time 2009 2010 Change % Time 2009 2010 Change % Time 2009 2010 Change %
Tawuniya 194.8 395.1 103 Tawuniya 2729.3 2840.6 4 BUPA 1438.2 100
recorded by 23 companies in
MedGulf 87.7 142.3 62 MedGulf 1495.6 2123.3 42 SAAB Takaful 226.8 204.8 90
BUPA 33.7 44.4 32 BUPA 1119.4 1440.5 29 AXA 256.1 224.5 88
Malath 5.4 15.3 183 Malath 275.6 488.1 77 MedGulf 1748.3 82
first nine months of 2010
Gulf Union Co 5.5 9.7 78 SAICO 10.9 429.3 Very high Al-Saqr Insurance 193.8 154.3 80
Al-Saqr Insurance 5.6 9.4 66 Allianz 239.6 402.3 68 ACIG 48.0 36.4 76
SAICO 7.4 9.3 25.7 Gulf Union Co 368.5 288.5 -22 IAIC 115.0 86.2 75
Arabian Shield 6.5 7.5 17 AXA -- 256.1 -- Sanad 171.5 122.2 71
IAIC 10.0 2.4 -75 SAAB Takaful 200.8 226.8 13 Wala’a 164.2 109.9 67
Saudi United 0.7 0.8 14.3 Al-Saqr Insurance 141.6 193.8 37 Tawuniya 1835.6 65
ACE -- 0.8 -- Arabian Shield 150.5 193.6 29 Malath 488.1 308.3 63
Trade Union Al-Ahlia 38.7 191.9 396 Saudi Indian 54.8 34.6 63
0.7 2.0 185.7
Insurance
The Saudi market recorded good financial results during the first nine Wala’a 11.7 5.2 -56
Sanad 130.8 171.5 31 Al-Ahlia 191.9 118.2 62
Wala’a 93.0 164.2 77 Arabian Shield 193.6 120.3 62
months of 2010. One hundred and two companies achieved a net profit of Allianz
Saudi Re
11.7
4.4
5.5
6.0
-53
36.4
Al-Ahli Takaful 80.0 154.7 93 SAICO 429.3 236.0 55
SR61.32 billion, while 27 companies suffered a loss rate of SR2.63 billion. Al-Ahlia 20.2 6.1 -70
IAIC 191.4 115.0 -40 Gulf Union Co 288.5 122.2 42
The final outcome of the net profits of 129 companies listed in the Saudi
Saudi Re 46.9 93.1 98 Allianz 402.3 170.3 42
Al-Ahli Takaful 2.6 7.6 192.3
Saudi Indian 64.8 54.8 -15 Saudi Re 93.1 34.4 37
stock market amounted to SR58.69 billion. SAAB Takaful
AICC
13.4
8.7
8.7
9.1
35-
4.6
ACIG 0.6 48.0 Very high Al Ahli Takaful 154.7 NA NA
Total 7378 9876.1 34 Total 7104.7 73
Saudi Indian 15.8 10.6 33-
Table 2 Table 3
AXA -- 12.5 --
ACIG 17.6 12.7 28-
Sanad 12.0 13.5 12.5
Insurance companies enjoyed a fair companies, which had not yet started during the first nine months of the year Total 232.5 535.9 130.5
share of these good results as 23 their insurance business then. The study 2010, compared to the corresponding Table 1
insurance companies listed on the did not also include companies that did period of the previous year, with the
market achieved a collective profit of not disclose their financial statements exception of three companies whose
SR535.9 million, scoring an increase because they had not received the underwritten premiums declined during
of 130 percent over the same period approval of SAMA, as shown in table 1: the same period: Gulf Union (-22%),
in 2009. The previous year’s profits of The total premiums for insurance IAIC (-40%) and Saudi Indian (-15%).
insurance companies in the same period companies that started its operations As shown in table 2
amounted to SR232.5 million. reached SR9.88 billion by the end of
A study conducted by Argam Website last September, achieving an increase of 73 PERCENT IS AVERAGE RETENTION
on the results of insurance companies 34 percent compared to SR7.38 billion RATE
during this period revealed that the in the same period last year. Statistics The average retention rates for insurance
increase came almost entirely from two show that three companies (Tawuniya, companies in the Saudi market reached
companies: Tawuniya, which recorded a MedGulf and BUPA) seized control of 73 percent, and the retention rates
profit of SR395.1 million and MedGulf, nearly 55 percent of the total premiums for insurance companies under study
which recorded a profit of SR142.3 until the end of last September, led by ranged between 30 to 100 percent. The
million. The remaining 13 companies Tawuniya with SR2841 million, followed Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency
suffered losses during the same period, by MedGulf with SR2123 million and (SAMA) obliges licensed insurance
including, SABB Takaful, Allianz, Saudi BUPA with SR1441 million. companies to a minimum retention
Indian Company and ACIG. The study All insurance companies recorded ratio of 30 percent, according to
did not include the newly-established an increase in underwritten premiums Article 40 of the Implementing
44 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 45
Reports and Analysis
Regulations of the Cooperative Insurance
Financial results for insurance companies
Insurance Companies’ Profit Insurance Companies’ Claims (Million
Companies Control. The same article (Million riyal) riyal)
also requires companies to re-insure
First nine months First nine months
30 percent of their total contributions
Time 2009 2010 Change % Time 2009 2010 Change % TAWUNIyA INSURANCE of the year 2010, compared to losses of SR11.7 million (SR1.17 per share)
within the Kingdom when applying
Tawuniya 931.7 1171.4 26 Tawuniya Company for Cooperative Insurance, which is the largest and during the same period in 2009, a decline of 53 percent. The company
for reinsurance. Tawuniya 2.8 32.0 1024
oldest insurance company in Saudi Arabia, recorded a profit of SR395.1 attributed the decline in losses to the underwritten premiums, which
The retention rates of insurance Saudi Re 20.4 15.0 -26 MedGulf 714.2 999.3 40
million (SR7.90 per share) by the end of the first nine months of the year reported an increase of 68 percent, while the net of the underwritten
companies are usually affected by the MedGulf 8.5 13.2 55 BUPA 701.3 951.5 36
2010, an increase of 103 percent compared to profits recorded in the same premiums increased by 70 percent.
high retention rates in vehicle insurance Malath 43.2 134.1 210
Al-Saqr Insurance 4.0 3.4 -14 period of 2009. The reason for this increase is the surplus of insurance
and health insurance, which constitute Gulf Union Co 83.0 103.1 24
AICC 1.8 3.0 70 operations, the increase of underwritten premiums, the increase of net SANAD INSURANCE
the largest proportion of the total Sanad 29.4 97.9 233
Sanad 1.7 2.2 28 profits on the investment, and the increase of reinsurance commissions The losses of Sanad Insurance Company amounted to SR13.5 million
insurance premiums. SAICO 0.2 87.9 Very high compared with the same period last year. (SR0.68 per share) during the first nine months of 2010 compared to a loss
The Saudi Company for Reinsurance, Saudi United 1.0 1.6 61
Allianz 40.5 83.2 106 of SR12 million suffered during the same period in 2009. The company
which focuses on providing reinsurance SAAB Takaful 0.3 1.4 325
Al-Saqr Insurance 69.0 78.7 14 MALATH INSURANCE attributed the cause of economic losses to the low value of the new
services to insurance companies, was the Malath 2.0 1.2 -42 Arabian Shield 31.2 72.9 134 Malath Insurance recorded a profit of SR15.33 million (SR0.51 per share) medical insurance and the high cost of medical compensation.
lowest company to retain its premium,
BUPA 5.0 1.1 -79 IAIC 92.2 58.8 -36 by the end of the first nine months of the year 2010, an increase of 183
as the percentage reached 37 percent Trade Union
2.6 0.7 -73 Wala’a 17.8 46.5 162 percent compared to profit recorded in the same period of 2009. The SAUDI INDIAN INSURANCE
only because of the concentration of Insurance company attributed the cause of high profits to the escalation of operating Saudi Indian Company for Cooperative Insurance, one of the newest
insurance premiums with the company in Wala’a 2.5 0.7 72-
AXA -- 42.5 --
profits, the continued growth in the company’s customer base, the growth insurance companies in Saudi Arabia, decreased its losses to SR10.58
other sectors (engineering and property) AXA -- 0.6 --
Al-Ahlia 1.1 22.0 1841
of gross and net written premiums, the company’s ability to maintain million (SR1.06 per share) by the end of the first nine months of the year
in the absence of any premiums in the Saudi Indian 18.0 18.5 3
IAIC 0.3 0.5 67 insurance contracts for key customers, and the expansion of insurance 2010, compared to a loss of SR15.82 million for the same period in 2009,
health sector. BUPA, which operates in Saudi Re 3.5 16.5 376
Gulf Union Co 1.4 0.5 62- channels and outlets in different regions in the Kingdom. down by 33 percent. The company attributed the cause of the low losses
the health field only, was in the forefront SAAB Takaful 7.9 7.8 -1
in the third quarter compared to the same quarter of last year to the higher
and retained all its subscribed premiums, Arabian Shield 0.8 0.4 -55
Al-Ahli Takaful 0.4 0.2 -52
MEDGULF reinsurance commissions, which have increased by 161.46 percent, and
as shown in table 3. Al-Ahlia -- 0.3 -- ACIG -- 0.2 -- The Mediterranean & Gulf Insurance and Reinsurance (MedGulf) recorded the lower general and administrative expenses.
Allianz 0.4 0.3 -25 Total 2784.6 3993 43 a profit of SR142.3 million (SR1.78 per share) during the first nine months
SR4 BILLION WORTH CLAIMS
ACIG 0.32 0.24 -26 Table 5 of the year 2010, compared to profit of SR87.7 million achieved during the AL-AHLIA INSURANCE
Insurance companies incurred during the
SAICO 0.17 0.24 28 same period last year. Al Ahlia Insurance for Cooperative Insurance decreased its losses to SR6.1
first half of this year claims amounting to Surplus of insurance operations, after
Saudi Indian 0.4 0.2 -50 million (SR0.61 per share) during the first nine months of the year 2010,
SR3.99 billion, an increase of 43 percent the deduction of ROI (Million riyal)
WALAA INSURANCE compared to a loss of SR21.2 million during the same period in 2009. The
in the same period last year. Claims are a ACE -- 0.16 -- First nine months The Saudi United Cooperative Insurance company attributed the reduced losses to the high operating expenses.
formal request to an insurance company Al-Ahli Takaful 1.3 0.12 -91 Time 2009 2010 Change % Company (Walaa Insurance) reduced its losses to SR5.2 million (SR0.26 per
asking for a payment based on the Total 57.7 79.1 37 Tawuniya 214.4 394.4 84 share) during the first nine months of 2010, compared to a loss of BUPA ARABIA
terms of the insurance policy. Insurance
Table 4 MedGulf 90.8 145.7 60 SR11.7 million during the same period of the year 2009. The low losses Bupa Arabia for Cooperative Insurance Co. achieved a profit of SR44.4
claims are reviewed by the company
BUPA 35.4 51.4 45 were a result of the high gross and net underwritten premiums compared million (SR1.11 per share) during the first nine months of the year 2010,
for their validity and then paid out to RETURNS ON INVESTMENTS
to the previous year, in addition to profits from policyholders’ investments. compared to a profit of SR33.7 million during the same period in 2009.
the insured or requesting party (on Insurance companies invest Malath 7.4 19.1 158
The cause of profit during the third quarter is related to the same causes. The company attributed the gains to the low number of claims and an
behalf of the insured) once approved. cash received from underwritten Gulf Union Co 11.1 15.4 38
increase in the insurance net, up by 35 percent. The reason for high results
Claims are usually associated with the premiums in investment vehicles Arabian Shield 11.5 13.6 18
SALAMA of the third quarter of 2010 compared to the same quarter last year is
size of premiums. The total of claims under the supervision of the Saudi SAICO 2.3 12.2 631 The profits of Saudi IAIC Cooperative Insurance Company (SALAMA) related to the increase in the insurance net by 41 percent.
incurred by the three largest companies Monetary Agency. Nine insurance Al-Saqr Insurance 7.4 12.2 65 declined to SR2.43 million (SR0.24 per share) during the first nine months
in terms of underwritten premiums during c o m p a n i e s a ch i e v e d r e t u r n s o n
IAIC 11.1 2.7 76- of 2010, down by 76 percent compared to net profit of the same period in AXA INSURANCE
this period amounted to 79 percent of investments (policyholders) amounting
Al-Ahli Takaful 0.2 2.0 1100 2009 . The company attributed the cause of the low third-quarter profit, as AXA Insurance recorded a loss of SR12.47 million (SR0.62 per share)
the total claims incurred in the sector as to SR46.8 million in the first nine
well as low profits during the nine months, to the decline in the volume during the first nine months of the year 2010. There are no comparative
a whole, as shown in table 4: months of the year 2010, compared SAAB Takaful 8.3 2.7 67
of premiums in the same period the previous year. figures because the company still new. The reason for the loss in the third
Insurance companies registered a to SR13.3 million in the same Wala’a 14.1 4.9 -65
quarter of 2010 is related to the increased expenses of the establishment
surplus of insurance operations after period last year. Al-Ahlia 16.3 5.8 -65
ARABIAN SHIELD COOPERATIVE INSURANCE as the company started its operations on Feb.18, 2010.
the deduction of returns on investments The return on the investment of Allianz 10.6 6.1 -42 Arabian Shield Cooperative Insurance increased its profit in the Saudi
amounted to SR 577.8 million, up shareholders’ funds amounted to Saudi Indian 14.5 9.7 -33 market to SR7.5 million (SR0.38 per share) during the first nine months of ACE INSURANCE
100 percent from the surplus during SR79.1 million during the current
ACIG 5.1 12.6 147 the year 2010, an increase of 17 percent compared to profit in the same ACE Insurance Company suffered a loss of SR816,000 (SR0.08 per share)
the same period last year. Nine period, compared to SR57.7 million
AXA -- 13.5 -- period of 2009. The company attributed the rise in third-quarter profit to during the first nine months of 2010. Here also there are no comparative
companies incurred losses from their for the same period last year, as shown
Sanad 12.8 14.6 14 the high volume of underwritten premiums. figures as the company is new. The company attributed the cause of losses
insurance operations (deficit), including in table 6.
in the third quarter of this year to non-completion of the transfer of the
SABB Takaful, Allianz, Wala’a, Saudi Saudi Re 16.0 21.0 31
ALLIANZ SAUDI FRANSI COOPERATIVE INSURANCE COMPANy insurance company portfolio of the International Insurance Company and
Indian and ACIG, as shown in table 5: Total 288.9 577.8 100
Allianz Saudi Fransi Cooperative Insurance Company reduced its losses to ACE Arabia Insurance Company, in addition to the ill preparation of the
Table 5
SR5.5 million riyals (SR0.29 per share) by the end of the first nine months primary financial statements for insurance operations.
46 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 47
Around the World
Health Insurance in Australia:
The emergence of Medicare is relatively government health insurance, it is done Information on Medicare is easily
recent; it appeared in the middle of the through the programs of tax deduction available through out the country.
eighth decade, and specifically in the under the tax law of 1999. Medicare has a collection of audio CDs
year 1973, after the ratification of the It is clear that the Australian government translated into 16 languages, which
Establishing Equality and Excellence
Health Insurance Act. Since then, the provides full assistance in the cost of includes details on lists of services,
public health system has witnessed many medical care and treatment. It also assists eligibility requirements, benefits and
adjustments, based on the requirements in paying for most medicines under the payments. All this information can also
and needs of the communities. Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). be found on its website, at its office as
Anyone wanting to find out if he/ she is well as the Migrant Resource Centre.
WHAT DOES MEDICARE COVER? eligible for the Medicare services, he/
The health insurance system of Australia, which is known for its tolerant and diverse This insurance is considered relatively she should visit the local (insurance)
office, with all the official papers
SELECTIVE HEALTHCARE
comprehensive; it covers all health There is another health insurance
society composed of many races, ethnicities and cultures, is characterized by its services provided in health centers and including the passport, travel documents, option for the citizens of Australia, which
unique concept. government hospitals. Medicare (also permanent residence or temporary visa, is the private insurance or optional
called National Health Services) is offered and children’s vaccination documents. insurance, where citizens can get special
Australia is one of those countries free of charge in all public hospitals, If the individual holds a temporary visa, and distinct healthcare services. Health
The Australian state believes in society Australian citizens the right to choose
that have a comprehensive health and it also assists in paying the costs of he cannot register with Medicare, except insurance companies offer commercial
and its role in promoting tolerance, which between different healthcare systems,
insurance system giving 100 percent healthcare outside public hospitals while in some cases. In addition, Medicare services for those individuals who choose
includes both citizens and residents. enabling them to get the healthcare they
cover to all citizens. The commonwealth providing free medical treatment for oversees children’s immunization to pay for the additional funds, in addition
Therefore, its insurance system takes into want.
government, the federal government and those who reside within the territory of records and manages the Department of to the amount of money deducted as taxes
account this diversity and the elements of There are two types of health insurance:
provincial states, bear the responsibility Australia – both citizens and residents. Australian Organ Donor, where adults from them for the benefit of compulsory
freedom and equality. public and private. The public health
of developing a health database that With regard to the financing of the can register to donate organs. insurance.
The values of the Australian society are insurance system is called Medicare, in
based on respecting the law and other is required to manage all healthcare which the state manages, supervises and
cultures, freedom and dignity of every services through a health department. controls the health insurance. This type
individual, equality between men and This department is an independent of insurance reflects the philosophy of Medicare is a public health insurance system, in which the state manages,
women, and justice and compassion for governmental entity that helps and the Australian government and its role supervises and controls the health insurance. This type of insurance reflects
the needy. Therefore, to understand the supports the Australian government in the in providing healthcare services to all
working of the Australian health insurance implementation of all its health policies, its citizens without exception; and that
the philosophy of the Australian government and its role in providing all
system, it is imperative to comprehend through specialized insurance programs, health insurance is a way to meet these healthcare services to all its citizens.
these values. relying on its vision of granting all the services.
48 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 49
Around the World
This form of insurance gives more institutes, it has to be ensured
freedom to individuals to choose the that they apply for the same
type of service they want. Essentially, insurance for both the
private insurance is a means of spouses and the children. We list in every edition of the magazine a page of the commonly-used
accessing selective healthcare As for the medical bills terminologies in the cooperative medical insurance sector. This knowledge will
services. The cost of the insurance that a student pays from help to enrich the experience of those working in the medical insurance services
policy depends on the level and the his account, the payment as well as those benefitting from them.
quality of the provided services in can be cashed to him via
private hospitals. Beneficiaries can a special system. First, he
also benefit from healthcare services has to visit the insurance
provided in healthcare centers and company and ask for the
governmental hospitals. payment. He should have all
This type of insurance presently the invoices and the form of Reasonable and regular General exceptions:
medical expenses:
occupies a prominent place in the compensation for medical
insurance industry, as many people bills. He should paste all the The medical expenses that answer the fees of most Benefits and health services exempted of the coverage
choose to deal with insurance small bills on an A4 sheet licensed doctors or hospitals in the KSA, on the condition and cited in a specific clause of the policy, and are
companies that provide full health so as not to loose them and that these fees are for treating a similar situation, and applicable on all the beneficiaries.
coverage and treatment in addition reduce the waiting period that the licensed doctors or hospitals are similar in
to covering services that are not for compensation. The form qualification and status to those who provided the care.
covered by Medicare, such as is then sent along with The medical treatment that is not fundamentally emergency health services:
dentistry and ophthalmology. copies of the invoices and different from what the licensed doctor considers as
In order to encourage citizens to Immigrants have a special health policy the compensation form. acceptable considered as regular and normal for any The health care services and equipment required to treat
that takes into account their status and specific disease, is done by claiming the medical any emergency.
PROBLEMS AND IMMEDIATE
Immigrants have a conditions. New immigrants who arrive
in Australia after July 1, and are 31, will SOLUTIONS
expenses under this document. Treatment category inside the hospital:
The category of the room and the hospital services
special health system not pay the additional fees if they sign Some students face problems when Insurance card: specified for the covered and deserved health services.
that takes into account with an insurance company before the applying for insurance because a few
companies and hospitals do not accept
Approval to enter the hospital:
passage of the first year on the day they The identity card the company issues for every A document filled by the doctor treating the beneficiary,
their status and became eligible for the Medicare card. their health cards. In such a case, the beneficiary under the health insurance policy. and adopted by the company before entering the hospital.
conditions. Any delay in applying for an insurance cultural attaché in Australia advices the
student to review the website of the
company after the first year results in
an increase in the cost, where the price insurance company in order to learn covered category: Model claim:
apply for private insurance, the Australian may include an additional fee for health about the hospitals and clinics approved
government provides many incentives to insurance for life. for treatment, and show their health card Categorizing the employees in the A document filled by the doctor on duty so the
them, including the recovery of 30 percent when they visit any clinic or hospital. employer’s category, so as to benefit from all services. beneficiary would get the coverage concerning the
of the fees paid to private health insurance INSURANCE FOR STUDENTS Students must obtain all their medical benefits of using the clinics.
companies. It also added an additional tax In the recent years, the number of reports from the hospital or clinic they
of one percent on people with income of students studying on scholarships in visited and submit them to their insurance Benefits Program:
more than five thousand Australian dollars Australia has increased and so have their company as a document proof showing Benefits of the resident patient:
per year and who are not registered with healthcare problems. There are now a the projected costs for treatment. The A mixture of all the benefits the
private health insurance companies. set of conditions for health insurance, treatment can be divided into more than beneficiaries are allowed to have based on their contract A treatment inside the hospital or a
which students should abide by. First, one type for the same operation (cost of with the company. one-day treatment or under-surveillance, treatment in an
LIFE INSURANCE students must visit an insurance company anaesthesia, cost of hypnosis, costs of
emergency room, which can’t be provided in external
Health insurance for life is relatively new or its website and renew their medical surgery, etc.) so it is necessary that each
clinics.
and was introduced by the government insurance up to their period of stay in the treatment is separated from the other Health services:
to encourage people to register with an country. They should also fill in a form of when it comes to financial matters.
insurance company that covers medical compensation for medical bills. With regard to medical insurance Resident patient:
The specified and excluded health care services and
services in hospitals. This system states After that, the form, along with a for dental treatment, the student has to
equipment covered by the policy.
that when an individual registers with health insurance card, confirmation of submit a clear treatment plan that shows
an insurance company after the first of A stay in the hospital requiring sleeping inside the
membership and proof of payment must all the stages of treatment, which should Approved Facility:
July following his thirty-first birthday, he institution.
be sent by regular mail. If the student is be within the amount allowed for the
would pay a higher amount to meet the coming to Australia with his family, he treatment of the student during the year.
same level of insurance compared to a A hospital specified by the company as an approved
should add the names of the escorts in After receiving reports from the insurance Prescription Drugs:
person who is registered with an insurance facility, and which made a contract with or on behalf of
the insurance policy once he has arrived company, the student should send these
company before the first of July following the insurance company to provide the covered medical
in Australia or New Zealand. He or she reports by fax, email or regular mail
his thirty-first birthday. In such a case, the services and the adequate health services to treat specific Medication the patient gets through a prescription written
should inform the insurance company to the medical officer in the attaché,
cost of the service will increase by two diseases or cases. by a licensed doctor.
of any newborn immediately after birth. enclosing the financial application form,
percent for each year of delay of settling If the scholarship covers a husband and available on the Australian cultural
with an insurance company. his wife, who are studying at different attaché’s website.
50 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 51
Lifestyle
The history of perfume is diamond stones. Only five bottles
as old as man himself. More are produced each year.
than five thousand years ago, 2) Clive Christian No.1 ($2150):
Mixing the sensations of the East and the West the ancient Egyptians burned
scented materials, which were
This fragrance, made by the Prolific
British Designer Clive Christian,
Perfumes: A global industry
composed of resin, a type of is composed of Indian jasmine,
gum, along with the extract of tangerine and sandalwood. The
different types of plants with bottle is handmade with crystal
with an Arabic twist
aromatic smell. This mixture was and gold, and the stopper is
burned everyday at sunrise. designed after the original pattern
Rich ancient Egyptians used granted by Queen Victoria.
ointments and creams made 3) Caron's Poivre ($2000): This
of lemon, anise, frankincense fragrance is made of lavender,
and thyme, and used those jasmine, rose, lotus wood,
Fragrances are tantalizing enough to delight one’s senses, take the breath away perfumes and fragrances for the sandalwood, and musk.
treatment of mental illnesses by 4) Chanel No.5 ($1850): This
and make you fall in love with them. They flow around like beautiful music, applying scented dough on the walls of
widespread, and the hygiene level was
fragrance is one of the most famous
less than acceptable.
capturing your senses and soul. Perfume comes from the Latin word “per” their homes, believing that the pleasant Hence, need arose for a substance perfumes in the world, and its composition
meaning “through” and “smoke” as many ancient perfumes were made by aroma would help patients feel better and that could cover up the stink and the mainly consists of jasmine. Interestingly,
extracting natural oils from plants through pressing and steaming. The oil was optimistic. production of perfumes took root in the House of Chanel had initially
The ancient Greek civilization went requested the manufacturing of six
then burned to scent the air during celebrations and festivals. even beyond this in using perfumes and
the 17th century. Later on, it became a
fragrances, but when the company liked
tradition of sorts for upper-class women to
similar was the case with the Romanian spray their napkins with a light perfume. the fifth type it started distributing its
Empire. Legend has it that King Nero once In the 19th century, the perfume samples in stores for free.
ordered that the roofs of his banquet halls industry developed to become like any 5) Baccarats Les Larmes Sacrees de
should “rain” fragrances on the heads of other luxurious industry. In the 20th Thebe ($1700): Baccarat, better known
the guests. The perfumes were still in the century, and because of the high demand for its pure and high-quality crystal,
form of an ointment or powder, and not for its products, perfume houses resorted decided to get in on the fragrance act in
in the liquid form, as is available today. to the use of certain chemicals in the the late 1990s, with three limited-edition
The fragrances were available in small industry. fragrances of its own. The price is largely
bottles attached to the neck. Several countries in the Maghreb are due to the pyramid-shaped bottle, made
The perfume industry reached the now well-known for cultivating roses that of Baccarat crystal, and the fragrance,
Arabs in the ninth and tenth centuries. are exclusively used in manufacturing which includes frankincense and myrrh,
Arabs were not satisfied with the aromatic perfumes, while in Europe, the French is meant to evoke the ancient Egyptians.
extract of plants, and they developed village of Grass on the southern coastal 6) Annick Goutal's Eau d'Hadrien
it with time, innovating many ways to is home to hundreds of plants of lavender ($1500): This fragrance consists of lemon,
use them for their various festivals and and jasmine. grapefruit, cypress wood, and is designed
in daily life. They also used to bath in by pianist “Annick”.
incense and rose water and invented the GLOBAL INDUSTRy 7) Hermes' 24 Faubourg ($1500):
water distiller, which is used until now to The perfume industry is a major global It is a French perfume for women from
extract the abstracts of flowers and roses. industry with revenues of $17.8 billion Hormuz, which entered the market in the
After entering Andalusia, the Arabs annually. It has a strong presence in the fifties.
spread the culture of fragrance to Europe West and the Indian market, where the 8) Jean Patou's Joy ($800): It is a popular
by exporting different types of roses and industry is estimated at $0.25 billion. fragrance among Hollywood stars, and it
scented plants, such as, amber. Arabs also The perfume market is dominated by consists of roses and jasmine.
widely used incense, balsam, camphor, five major players, namely, Givaudan,
and Damascus roses (known as Damask International Flavors & Fragrances, ORIENTAL PERFUMES
rose). Firmenich, Symrise and Quest Despite the popularity of French
The European interest in perfumes International. The eight most expensive perfumes, Paris opened its doors to
increased after they arrived in Madagascar, perfumes that are in huge demand Arabic fragrances particularly because a
the Comoros and India, bringing in globally are: number of celebrities as well as members
many spices from India, flowers from of the elite class competed with each
Madagascar and scented wood from the 1) Clive Christian's Imperial Majesty other to own the newest Arabic fragrance
Comoros. ($215000): This fragrance and its bottle products, which include perfumes,
During the reign of French King Louis have entered the Guinness Book of colognes, bed fresheners, incense, oud,
XIV, fragrance became indispensable in Records. The Prolific British Designer, amber and natural flowers.
order to get rid of the bad odour coming Clive Christian, designed the fragrance Some of the world’s most exotic
from people or places, especially in Paris, and the bottle, which is encircled by perfumes are difficult to extract from
where the means of cleanliness were not an 18-carat gold bracelet and 4-carat nature, and are found only in the
52 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 53
Middle East. For example, amber is one mainly because they are very popular festivals and feasts. Many people prefer
such rare fragrance, which is mainly among the Arabs. to buy perfumes in the period between
extracted from whales. Arabic perfumes Oud is characterized by the January and May, when the Gulf countries
and products started attracting more concentration of essential oils; it stays for enjoy a moderate weather and a happy
attention because of their diversity a longer period on the body or clothing, wedding season.
and incredible aroma that comes from which is why it is widely used and liked Experts advise that people should
natural roses, oud, musk, herbs, fruits, by the people of the Persian Gulf, who not apply perfume or fragrance on the
oils, incense and mixtures in addition have to cope with high temperatures and face as the facial skin is very sensitive,
to body care products and natural body the dry climate of the region. especially that most perfumes contain a
deodorants. Oriental perfumes are generally high percentage of alcohol. It is advised
Fragrances have a special significance expensive because of the high to apply perfume on the neck and chest,
for Arabs; and their usage dates back to a concentration of fragrance in them and dab it on clean hair only, as the oils
long tradition of parents and grandparents and the difficulty in obtaining its raw that may exist in the hair can change the
over the years. Fragrances are not only materials. It is known that this type of nature of the fragrance.
used for the body, but are also used to fragrance contains natural ingredients The ideal way to spray perfume is to
perfume the house with a variety of mind- without alcohol, in contrast to French do it from a distance ranging between
soothing aromas. perfumes, for example, which have a 12 -14cm from the body. If you want the
The most popular type of perfume in small percentage of fragrance and the rest fragrance to stay longer, it is advisable
the Arab countries is the oriental type, is alcohol. to wear the perfume after taking a
which is famous in the Persian Gulf, in Oud is made from the fragrant resin morning bath.
particular, and the most famous of the found in Agarwood tree. Oud takes years
oriental perfume is oud. to form in the trunks of Agarwood trees TAIF ROSE
Aromatic oils developed in the Arab contaminated by a certain bacteria. Since The dark, dense fragrance of Taif roses
region are distinct from those produced the Oud tree is not grown anywhere except makes one of the most precious and
in other parts of the world. In the Gulf in some parts of Asia, the price of the wood expensive perfumes in the world. It is
region, oud occupies the first position in and its oil extracts has remained high. generally extracted from the nectar of 12
terms of importance, while jasmine and Oud oil is used for perfuming the or 32 flowers.
rose are the key components of perfumes body, while oud incense is suitable for Taif Rose, a unique fragrance, is sold
found in the Levant, North Africa, perfuming clothing and living areas. Oud in grams, and it is popular all across the
Egypt and Sudan. There are no specific is also available in the form of creams, region. According to a recent statistic
components of the oriental perfume as skin products and cosmetics, while oud issued by the Chamber of Commerce and
they are imported from different regions oil, known as Mokhmaliya, is specially Industry in Taif, the rose farmers were
of the world and then processed in Arab used for perfuming the hair. able to raise a revenue of around SR50
factories. Oriental perfumes remain a cultural million this year.
These perfumes are known as Arabic icon associated with celebrations. They The beautiful city of Taif, which sits on
perfumes despite their oriental origins are most in demand during seasons of top of the Sarawat Mountains, is home to
hundreds of roses farms scattered across
the region. Some of these lush valleys
include Al-Hada, Al-Shifa, Thaqeef, Bani
Saad and the Bani Malik.
Roses are reaped manually, starting
from the end of March and during the
months of April and May each year.
There is a specific time for the harvesting
process, which begins with the early
morning hours and extends until just
before the sunrise.
Newer villages are now entering into
the production of perfume roses, mainly
due to the support they are receiving and
the overwhelming demand for the roses
from distilleries and perfume producers
from around the world.
The price of a tola of Taif roses can
be as high as SR3000, and most of the
production is booked in advance. The
price of rose water varies with its variety:
Al-Aroos for SR50, Al-Thano for SR30
and Al-Sayer for SR10.
54 Safar 1432 | January 2011
Travel & Tourism
Despite its relatively small area, Jordan to about six thousand years; a copper basalt stone and it overlooks the walls
is a country that has many amazing manuscript of the Dead Sea written of the Azraq oasis.
tourist destinations, which are worth a in Aramaic letters, and many more. In South Jordan, we visited the Shobak
visit. In this edition of the magazine, Models of tools that were used in daily Castle, which is a vivid example of the
we journey through a beautiful Arab life since the beginning of the nineteenth engineering masterminds during the
country that perfectly blends fun, century and early twentieth century are Crusaders War. These places witnessed
pleasure and the thrill of knowledge – found in the Jordan Museum of Popular military battles and wars in different
the land of Jordan. Traditions, in addition to over 2200 historic periods. The castle is located
In the past, many civilizations settled coins on display at the Museum of the at a height of 1330 km above sea level
in Jordan including the kingdoms of the National Bank of Currencies. and about an hour’s drive from the city
Ammonites, Edomites and Almwabeyen, of Petra on the desert road. The castle
Nabatean Arabs, Hyksos, Egyptians, PALACES AND CASTLES includes nine towers and is beautifully
Assyrians, Greek, the Persians and the Given the many historical civilizations decorated with inscriptions on the
Romans, until the Islamic conquest in that settled in Jordan, we, like any exterior.
the mid-seventh century AD.
Jordan’s beautiful archaeological sites
stand testimony to these civilizations Amman, the capital of Jordan known as
until this day. The castles, forts and
towers, theatres, palaces and shrines “Philadelphia” linking it to the Roman emperor
remind the world of these ancient Philadelphus, means “City of Brotherly Love”.
people. Jordan takes pride in its society,
which is a mix of cultures and races that
live peacefully together. The people of visitor to Jordan, came across many Ajloun is home to a living example of
Jordan are known for their kindness and outstanding castles and palaces, all of military Islamic architecture. The Castle
generosity. which tell stories about their glorious of Ajloun, known as Rabad Castle, was
past. The landscape, the hills and built by Izz Al-Din Usama bin Monqez
CAPITAL OF LOVE valleys are truly astounding. Qasr Amra (one of the leaders of Saladin) on the
Amman, the capital of Jordan, also is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture summit of a mountain that oversees
known as “Philadelphia” linking it that is located in the heart of the desert. a large part of the northern Jordan
to the Roman emperor Philadelphus, It is famous for its elegant dome and Valley. The castle was used to monitor
means “City of Brotherly Love”. Amman fine decorations that are designed in all roads and commercial convoys that
is known for its hills and mountains. a fresco style and represent scenes of linked southern Jordan with northern
It is about 90 kilometers away from fishing trips and animals found in the Levant. It includes observation towers
Jerusalem. In the past twenty years, region in that era, in addition to images and defences, living rooms, water wells,
the capital of Jordan has witnessed an of kings of that period. In the center of twisted corridors and horse stables.
unprecedented construction boom, the palace, there is a water well, which
expanding year after year to combine employs an old barmaid to lift water. JERASH
the authenticity of the past with the The water used to flow in the corridors At a distance of less than an hour from
charm of the present creating a truly under the floor of the palace to preserve the north of Amman is the city of Jerash.
fantastic city. heat, almost similar to the working of a Surrounded by many hills and forests,
central heating system of today. Jerash is considered one of the most
Jordan:
MUSEUMS To the east of Amman, we visited the important archaeological cities. This
If you are planning to visit Jordan, Qasr of Al-Harana, which is one of the Romanian city, which was fully covered
you must start your trip by visiting most important sites of the Umayyad by sand, was discovered more than 70
the land of civilization
its many museums, most of which period. The place, which consists years ago. The city appeared to have
are located in Amman. They include of 61 rooms spread on two floors, paved and unpaved streets with high
the Jordan Archaeological Museum, has undergone many maintenance peaks, suburbs, spas, waterfalls and
Jordan Museum of Popular Traditions, operations, and is characterized by its walls. In spite of being subjected to
Archaeological Museum/University unique architecture that is similar to a Roman rule, Jerash reflects the spirit of
of Jordan, Anthropological Museum/ castle. two cultures and civilizations: Greek
University of Jordan, Jordan National Around 25 km from the city of Zarqa and Romanian.
Visiting a country that is rich in tourist sites – from ancient historic castles and forts to Gallery of Fine Arts, Museum of the is the Milkmaids Palace or Qasr Al-
magnificent wildlife reserves and other attractions – is always a splendid experience. National Bank of Currencies, Royal Halabat. Archaeological evidence shows UMM QAIS
Automobile Museum and the Children’s that the site dates back to the Nabatean It was lunch time when we arrived in
Choosing where to go or which place to visit becomes a difficult task, especially in a Museum. period, although some archaeologists the scenic city of Umm Qais. The city is
country that abounds in geographical diversity and is considered to be a magnet for These museums contain distinctive believe its origins were in the Roman located on a high plateau in the northern
tourists from all around the world, as is the case with Jordan. collections such as rare artifacts from era. In the eastern region, lies the Blue city of Irbid, overlooking the valley of
Ain Ghazal, a Neolithic site located Castle, also dating back to the Roman Yarmouk, the Sea of Galilee and the
in North-Western Jordan, dating back period. The castle is built from black Jordan Valley, opposite to the Golan
56 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 57
Travel & Tourism
Heights. Having a sumptuous is breath-taking. The city as This is Jordan’s most heavily toured directions. The easiest access to Petra is SHOPPING
lunch in the company of nature’s well as the castle has witnessed city. Climbing, trekking, walking, through the Siq, a winding cleft in the The capital city of Amman is the main
bounteous beauty was a moment many historically significant meditation, camping, and watching rock that varies from between five to shopping center of Jordan. The city
of pure bliss. events and cultural shifts in the the picturesque sunsets are some of 200 meters wide. Petra’s excellent state offers plenty of shopping options –
Umm Qais was earlier known past. Nevertheless, the city has the activities that will feature on any of preservation can be attributed to the from commercial markets and modern
as “Jadara” and was one of the maintained its originality. adventure enthusiast’s ‘to-do’ list. fact that almost all of its hundreds of shopping complexes to traditional
Decapolis cities or the “Ten A must-try in the city is the “buildings” have been hewn out of souks, which are best for handicrafts and
Romanian Cities”. During most popular dish of Jordan – THE PINk CITy solid rock: there are only a few free- souvenirs. Among the most important
the Roman period, the city the ‘Mansaf’ – which is mostly The wonderful ‘pink city’ of the standing buildings in the city. Until and oldest industries of Jordan are the
witnessed a renaissance era of served in weddings and parties. Nabateans was hewn by hand from pink 1984, many of these caves were home carpet industry, embroidery, ceramic
literary, artistic and dramatic solid rock. In 2007, it was chosen as to the local Bedouins. dishes and pottery, silver jewelry,
development, and was the center AQABA one of the Seven Wonders of the World. A number of caves, gates, arches and baskets, and colorful sand bottles – all
of culture, art and poetry. It was Aqaba enjoys a special position Much of Petra’s fascination comes from other such archaeological delights – all of which reflect the rich civilization.
home to a number of poets and on Jordan’s tourism map. Its its setting on the edge of Wadi Araba. carved in pink stones and adorned with We bought some amazing souvenirs
philosophers. economic significance lies The rugged sandstone hills form a inscriptions – continue to enthral their to remind us of the wonderful time we
To the north of the city lie in the fact that it is the only deep canyon easily protected from all visitors and explorers. had in Jordan. We not only learnt a lot
the Hamma hot springs, which maritime to link Jordan with from our trip, but also enjoyed every
are famous for their therapeutic the world through the Red Sea. moment spent here. As we prepared to
value since the Roman era. It has Aqaba is an important starting A trip to Jordan would not be complete leave the country, we assured ourselves
great facilities, streets, theaters
and baths, all made of black
point for tourists who wish to
explore historical monuments
without visiting the lowest spot on earth – that we will be back here once again
to explore a lot more of the remarkable
basalt stone. The spot is also and archaeological sites in the the Dead Sea. heritage and indulge in some more
known for its luxurious markets, southern areas of Jordan, such retail therapy.
gates and tunnels, which are as, Petra and Wadi Rum. The
considered a masterpiece in journey from Aqaba to Petra and
irrigation engineering. Wadi Rum takes less than an
There are other archaeological hour.
sites that are worth a visit such
as: Fahel Tabaka, and Umm Al-Rasas,
which features in the UNESCO World
Heritage sites.
In South Jordan, we visited the Shobak Castle,
which is considered as a vivid example of the
DEAD SEA engineering masterminds during the Crusaders
A trip to Jordan would not be complete
without visiting the lowest spot on earth War.
– the Dead Sea. It is located about 55
km to the south-west of Amman. Not far
from the sea are Ma’in’s famous warm display at the Madaba Archaeological There are many interesting activities
springs. The Dead Sea mud, which is rich Museum. There are a number of that can be enjoyed in Aqaba, such
in saturated sediment mineral elements, historically significant sites in Madaba, as, swimming, diving, cruising, etc.
is used in the treatment of arthritis, skin such as Mount Nebo and Mkawer Most of the boats have a transparent
diseases, and for revitalizing the skin. Castle, among others. glass floor to catch a glimpse of
There are many treatment centers near the rare and diverse marine life.
the Dead Sea. Not only is the salty kARAk AND MANSAF
water used in the treatment of many In southern Jordan, on a triangular WADI RUM
diseases, its salts are also used in the hill, about 900 meters above the sea If you are looking for adventure and
production of therapeutic bath products level, lies the city of Karak, known for thrill, visit Wadi Rum, also known as
and cosmetic products. the famous crusader castle Karak. The the “Valley of the Moon” because of
castle is one of the three largest castles the similarity of its topography and the
MADABA in the region, the other two being in topography of the moon. It is located
Our next stop was the Mosaic city of Syria. 40 kilometers from the city of Aqaba.
“Madaba”, located 30 kilometres south Visitors can choose to ride horses and
of Amman. The city is famous for its The Crusaders built this castle as a focal discover the secrets of the valley, or
fabulous mosaics, which date back to point between the castle of Shobak and climb the magnificent mountains and
the Byzantine and Umayyad dynasties Jerusalem. As we walked through the view the amazing rock inscriptions that
of the sixth century. These comprise of castle, we came across secret passages are as old as four thousands years. The
depictions of hills and valleys in bright leading to underground rooms. The view beautiful city of Aqaba offers plenty of
color stones. Many mosaic maps are from the castle tower of the fascinating exotic sights. The city is also referred to
from the seventh century and are on natural scenery in the surrounding area as the Gulf of Jordan or the Aqaba Gulf.
58 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 59
Survey
This has led to many complaints among The lack of and follow-up minute per minute the
happenings in the insurance market in
beneficiaries on issues such as: obtaining
approval of certain medical conditions,
awareness of Saudi Arabia.”
disapproving pre-emptive medical all the involved Egyptian national Mohammed Hamid
testing, delay in approvals of hypnosis parties is the seconds Al-Shaer’s views, stressing that there
is no urgent need to review the insurance
and in the approval of the disbursement
of medicines, particularly those related reason behind this policy. “There are regulation authorities
to chronic diseases such as heart disease, uncertainty that are responsible for preserving the rights
diabetes and blood pressure. Although of all insurance parties. My only issue with
the executive list of the Council of health insurance companies is the delay
Cooperative Health Insurance has covered and waiting for getting an approval. I do
problem with my insurance policy, so I
these aspects, it seems that the lack of not think all the diseases are covered by
didn’t need to review it. Moreover, the
awareness of all the involved parties is my insurance policy.”
approval process has been easy and took
the reason behind this uncertainty. Another Egyptian national, Munir Ezzat,
no time.”
To find out what exactly are the who was accompanied with his wife,
Abdul Majeed Sharaf Al-Din, a Sudanese
expectations of the beneficiaries from said that his company does not show the
national said: “I agree that insurers should
their insurance companies, we surveyed employees their insurance policy as is the
be aware of their insurance policy and
a group of health insurance beneficiaries case with most insurance companies in
the benefits included. The only glitch
insured with well-known hospitals in the Kingdom. “These details are discussed
for me is the delay that occurs when
Riyadh, asking them if they had ever between the insurance company and the
requesting approvals for some tests and
carefully reviewed their and their employer. Presently, my wife and I are still
treatments. Moreover, the percentage we
families’ insurance policies. Interestingly, waiting for the approval of our insurance
pay for insurance companies is huge and
only one out of ten people answered in company to conduct some tests.”
the insurance company must pay for all
the affirmative. Saud bin Sulaiman Al- Ahmed Sheikh El-Din Ahmad, a
services without any trouble.”
Helo Al-Sharif said he recently reviewed Sudanese national, said: “All parties
Agreeing with Al-Din, Ali Al-Maliki
his insurance policy. “All paragraphs and should be aware of the insurance policy:
said: “Not being able to review or read our
provisions of my insurance policy are their rights, duties and conditions, this is
insurance policy causes many problems.
clear and direct to the point. The only certainly very useful and helpful. More
For example, I had pain in my knee, and
problem is the delay that occurs in getting importantly, insurance companies must
when my doctor prescribed some tests, my
approval for some medical treatments solve the problems of delays so that
insurance company approved the X-ray
even when they have all the required the service becomes better and more
test and refused to pay for the other tests,
documents,” he said. acceptable.”
and so I ended up paying for those. It is
Sharif Helmy, marketing and PR officer
How informed are insurers
Al-Sharif believes that certain diseases ironic that some hospitals take 20 percent,
should be included in insurance policies. at the Green Crescent Hospital in Riyadh,
while others do not, I wonder what is the
“Patients suffering from kidney failure, for comments on the difference between the
reason or logic behind this cut.”
example, should have all the necessary insured and the insurance companies.
Mohamed Jaber Al-Shaer, a Saudi
tests and treatments covered in their “The health insurance system is still new,
national who has a long-term experience
about their health insurance
insurance policy,” he said. and we need to educate the community
in the field of health insurance, says: “The
about it. Moreover, some of the terms of
lack of knowledge of the insurance policy
THE UNIFORMED MAJORITy the insurance policy are ambiguous to
hardly constitutes any problem for me or
The rest of the group comprising of nine some participants, so we need to make
policy?
my friends. Most of our problems are not
members (90 percent) of the surveyed things clearer to all,” he said.
related to insurance policies, but come
people, stated that they had not reviewed from the delay in approving treatments,
their insurance policy. Sobhi Awad, THE CONCLUSION
which may take a lot of time in some cases
Jordanian national, said: “I am not even Based on the survey it can be safely
depending on the insurance company.”
aware of the existence of an insurance concluded that majority of the insurers do
“I would like to thank the Council of
policy; I think my insurance company not bother to learn about their insurance
Cooperative Health Insurance, which
It has been more than four years since the introduction of the health insurance covers all diseases and I have never had has spared no effort to organize, control
policy. All they care about is getting their
a problem when it comes to requesting a insurance card, almost believing that
system in Saudi Arabia, yet there remains some uncertainty with regards to the treatment for any disease.” owning the card itself is enough to solve
relationship between service providers, insurance companies and hospitals on the He added: “It should be noted that all problems. Almost all the surveyed
one hand, and the beneficiaries of these services on the other. Many believe the most insured employees do not have Almost 90 percent people agreed that the main problem is
the documents that entitle them to take related to the delay in obtaining approvals
beneficiaries’ limited knowledge of the services provided by insurance companies advantage of insurance services, and
of the surveyed for medical tests/ treatments or operations.
is the main reason behind this ambiguity. usually, they do not know the details of people stated The concerned authorities, including the
Council of Cooperative Health Insurance,
their insurance policy.”
Amer Sufian Al-Saud explains his point
that they had not should continually keep an eye on the
of view saying: “So far I didn’t face any reviewed their work of the insurance companies.
insurance policy.
60 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 61
Insurance Forum
Insurance Forum Is it necessary that an employment contract specifies health
insurance for an employee or should the employer provide
health coverage to employees irrespective of that being
mentioned in the contract?
Hamad Al-Shahri – Jeddah
Does the health insurance system cover injuries during
work?
Ahmed Basmir– Jeddah
Injuries during work are subject to workers and social
insurance systems.
The employer is required to cover all his employees and
their dependents as per the contract of employment, whether Does the insured have the right to upgrade his/her
that contract specifies the right for health coverage or not. healthcare without preapproved transfer?
Saeed Al-Qahtani – Al Baha
Does the health insurance system apply to large companies The insured is entitled to upgrade to a higher level of
such as Aramco and SABIC healthcare without transfer, but he will borne the cost
Sami Al-Hajri – Dammam differential of the medical examination.
The system includes all employers in the Kingdom of Saudi
Arabia. Is the cooperative health insurance policy comprehensive;
does it cover all health services without exception?
Which authority is responsible for the cancelation of Maha Al-Ruwaili – Hail
insurance policies, and how is it done? The cooperative health insurance policy explains the benefits
Saad Al-Dosari – Riyadh and exclusions. The health benefits include the following:
The employer, the insurance company and the service A - All expenses of medical examination, diagnosis,
provider can cancel any insurance policies, but they should treatment and medicines, according to the policy.
inform the other party in writing at least one month from the B - All hospitalization expenses including surgery, treatment
date of cancellation. They should be able to provide a valid per day and childbirth
insurance coverage the following day of the cancellation of C- Treatment of diseases of the teeth and gums
the policy. D - Preventive measures specified by the Ministry of Health
such as vaccinations, maternity care and childhood.
Which authority grants licenses and rehabilitation to health 2- The expenses of repatriation of the insured person’s body
insurance companies? to his native country
Suad Hassan – Riyadh
The authority responsible for licensing is the Saudi Arabian Does the health insurance system cover pilgrims and
Monetary Agency, and the authority responsible for Umrah performers?
rehabilitation is the Cooperative Health Insurance Council. Khaled Al-Akkad – Makkah
The cooperative health insurance system does not mention
What is the role of the Cooperative Health Insurance insurance for Hajj or Umrah pilgrims.
Council with regard to the settlement of disputes and
disagreements between the insurance parties? Does the health insurance system cover certain groups such
Hassan Al-Shammari – Tabuk as pensioners, elderly and students, free of charge?
There is a committee or more formed by the President of the Solomon Al-Assa’edi – Taif
Council of Cooperative Health Insurance that is responsible The cooperative health insurance system aims to provide
for solving disagreements and identifying the violations of basic health service for non-Saudis residents; it also covers
Dear Reader, the provisions of the insurance system rules. The President Saudi nationals who work in the private sector.
of the Council shall sign the proposed appropriate penalty.
As in previous issue, we are glad to dedicate this section, “Insurance Forum,” to you. In this However, the affected parties can appeal against this Does the health insurance system provide healthcare
section, we welcome all opinions, constructive suggestions, concerns and questions about decision to the Board of Grievances. services for the poor and unemployed, who cannot afford
to pay for an insurance policy, such as the system of
the magazine, the cooperative health insurance sector and the topics we cover in each issue. Can an insurance company disclose the name of the insured (Medicaid) in America and Canada?
after applying for a claim? Mutleq Al-Zafire – Riyadh
After receiving your comments, we will direct them to the officials and specialists in the Ali Anzi – Riyadh The cooperative health insurance system provides health
insurance sector to give you the correct and most appropriate answers. The health insurance company is entitled to disclose the services to non-Saudi residents (and their family members),
insured after applying for claims at any authorized service who have come to work in the Kingdom. The system also
center within the insurance network. However, that is done requires the employer to apply, for their benefit, for the
for only two times, within 60 days from the date of receipt of cooperative health insurance. The right of Saudi nationals to
the claim. healthcare and treatment is guaranteed by the state.
62 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 63
Break
Funny story:
Poem by Elia Abu Madi: Some thieves entered the house of Abu Said and took all his belongings. When they left,
Abu Said followed them carrying some of the things they left. They asked him, “what is
Stay optimistic even if your days are dire wrong with you, what do you want?” He said: “You did not keep anything in my house, so
Be a joyful soul even if others do not like I decided to come and live with you.” They laughed with him, and returned all the things
it they stole.
Life has given you all its treasures
So do not be mean to it
Be good even if you are faced with
difficult situations
Who cares about results or appreciation?
Look at the flowers; who will reward
them for their gorgeous scent?
Look at that bird, is he singing for
Arabic proverb: Did you know?
appreciation or to enjoy himself? • The laser beam is four times
‘Came back with Hunain's shoes’ means ‘to returned empty-handed’
Count the number of good souls and stronger than the sunlight.
Story: During the Abbasid period in Baghdad, a Bedouin bargained with a Jewish
learn from them • The camel does not forget those
shoemaker named Hunain over a pair of shoes. After a long discussion, the Bedouin
The important things in life who treat him badly
did not buy them – something that infuriated Hunain – and he decided to take
Love and generosity • The French expedition to Mexico
revenge. He went to the road the Bedouin would pass by and threw a shoe on the
Love taught me valuable things lasted for over five years.
road, and threw another one at a distance of some meters. He hid, waiting for the
If the flower did not allow its scents to • The Saragaso Sea has no beaches as
Bedouin to come.
reach us all it lies within the Atlantic Ocean.
If the bird didn’t sing • The ancient Egyptian obelisk was
When the Bedouin passed by the road, he saw the shoe and said to himself, “This
The wonders of the Holy Qur'an:
Our life would be different and dreadful made from a stone column with
looks like Hunain’s shoe, but the other one is missing, otherwise I would have taken
So if you want to be happy four sides and a small pyramid on
it.” He kept walking when spotted the second shoe. He regretted that he did not take
Make people happy the top.
the first shoe. He tied his camel to a tree, and went back to look for it. At that point,
• Alexander the Great died in
***** Hunain emerged from his hiding place, and ran away with the camel. The Bedouin
Babylon.
1. It mentions the word “life” 115 times and the word “afterlife” 115 times. returned home without his camel, but with Hunain’s shoes.
Refresh the feeling of love in you if it is • The dolphin is the smartest among
2. It mentions the word “angels” 88 times and the word “demons” 88 times.
asleep mammals.
3. It mentions the word “people” 50 times and the word “prophets” 50 times.
If not for love, people would be puppets • Pigeons had a special department in
4. It mentions the word “honesty” 50 times and the word “dishonesty” 50 times.
With love, a small house can become a the Abbasid era.
5. It mentions the word “Satan” 11 times and mentions how to seek refuge from Satan
palace • The Chinese emperor who built the
11 times.
But hate can make the whole world a Great Wall of China is Huang T.
6. It mentions the word “Muslims” 41 times and the word “Jihad” 41 times.
prison • Arabic poetry has 16 rhythms.
7. It mentions the word “Zakat” 88 times and the word “Baraka” or “blessing” 88
Love the desert, and see how its sand • Gold Pendants are poems or poetry
times.
blooms from the pre-Islamic period written
8. It mentions the word “Mohammed” 4 times and the word “Shariah” 4 times.
And how its sky rains on gold leafs.
9. It mentions the word “woman” 24 times and the word “man” 24 times.
If you hate its sands and don’t understand • The ancient Arabs named “gold” the
10. It mentions the word “life” 145 times and the word “death” 145 times.
it “buzzing yellow”.
11. It mentions the word “good” 167 times and the word “bad” 167 times.
The desert will never tell you its secrets • Karun was famous in ancient history
12. It mentions the word “ease” 36 times and the word “difficulty” 12 times.
Beauty is only for those who appreciate for turning dirt into gold.
13. It mentions the word “moral” 6 times and the word “immoral” 3 times.
beauty • Gold is weighed in grams, and
14. It mentions the word “loud” 16 times and the word “publicity” 16 times.
While others cannot tell the difference diamond in carat.
15. It mentions the word “love” 83 times and the word “obedience” 83 times.
Do not you seek love from the ignorant • Emerald has another name
16. It mentions the word “guidance” 79 times and the word “mercy” 79 times.
Love only comes with understanding “Aquamarine”.
17. It mentions the word “peace” 50 times and the word “good things” 50 times.
Deal with stupidity as if it is a sickness • The fly flutters its wings about 32
18. It mentions the word “hardship” 102 times and the word “patience” 102 times.
At the end, ignorance is worse than times per second.
19. It mentions the word “calamity” 75 times and the word “gratitude” 75 times.
blindness 20. It mentions the word “penalty” 117 times and the word “forgiveness” 234 times.
Enjoy the beauty of the roses and forget
about thorns
And when the nature opens its heart for
you
Forget about the scorpions Quote:
Success is not a gift; it can only be achieved by sacrifices and hard work.
64 Safar 1432 | January 2011 COOPERATIVE HEALTH INSURANCE 65
Opinion
REINSURANCE
We meet again ﺍﻟـﻨـﺨـﺒــــــــــــــﺔ
ﻟﻮﺳـﺎﻃـــﺔ ﺍﻟﺘـﺄﻣﻴــﻦ
A recent talk show hosted by Alarabiya TV station discussed health insurance ﻭﺇﻋــــــﺎﺩﺓ ﺍﻟﺘـﺄﻣﻴــﻦ
in the Kingdom, inviting a group of insiders from the Saudi health sector who
spoke about the health coverage and the health system in the country. The
idea of the program was good especially because it sheds light on one of
the main concerns of the citizens and residents of our country – the health
insurance, the extent of medical coverage and quality of services.
At the end of the program, I tried to evaluate what I had heard and seen,
trying to be as neutral as possible, thinking from the point of view of an
ordinary viewer. I realized that the program did not offer anything new – the
questions by the presenter were poorly prepared, inaccurate and unclear. Not
only did the program not offer any solutions or fresh ideas, but the information
that was given by the guests, unfortunately, was inaccurate and sometimes
misleading.
In fact, the conversation that took place in the program was not in line
with the level of the subject at all. I do not think that anyone who watched
the program must have received any useful information or had a clearer
perception. Therefore, the program and its conductors failed miserably in
reaching their goal.
I am not trying to evaluate or criticize anyone. However, I have a question:
As long as it is an important subject, do we not have the right to listen and
see the concerns discussed transparently and clearly? Otherwise, what is the
benefit of such programs and discussions if they achieve nothing?
Unfortunately, when watching non-Arab TV channels or talk shows, we
appreciate the extensive knowledge of the presenter, who picks up his guests Mohammed bin Salman Al-Hussain
Our vision
accurately, asks clear questions and insists on clear responses, even if the Assistant Secretary General
program is less than an hour or so. In this case, the program in question ran Financial and Admin Affairs
for a full hour. In other programs, the viewer always understands what has
Council of Cooperative Health Insurance
been discussed, and what has emerged from the discussion. We cannot help
but value presenters and the people behind the scene for their professionalism Our main vision is to create an
organisation that will manage, lead
and expertise – something our presenters obviously lack.
I am sure that the main problem was in not preparing for the program
before it started. I personally do not see a problem if the participants of the
program engaged in asking, discussing or debating with specialists, as far
and help the regional insurance
as this will allow the viewer to understand the subject, as he/she is the one industry in opening its door to the
international reinsurance market
targeted in these programs – actually in all programs.
The program was only about sharing general information, memories, and
other similar details that do not benefit the viewers, especially because most arena and be widely recognized
as a great and exceptional source
of the information discussed has been changed or amended recently.
I repeat my point, the ill-informed presenter and the poorly-prepared guests
ruined the program and diminished its objective. I hope that in the future,
and provider of credible and reliable
reinsurance services. We aim to
when deciding to participate in or presenting a program, all the involved
should be fully-prepared and must keep the viewer in mind before speaking
non-sense.
Indeed, such meetings and discussions are of great help, especially when
gain regional recognition as a centre
it comes to health insurance, in raising awareness and educating the public, of excellence in reinsurance and
insurance brokerage services in the
only if the matters are discussed correctly and thoughtfully.
Saudi Arabian market.
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia P. O. Box 305488, Riyadh Phone: 920007474
Customer service: 1130 - 1120 - 1110 - 5553 Fax: 920007474 Ex. 1222 www.elitere-sa.com
66 Safar 1432 | January 2011