RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Global directions for reforming health systems and expanding insurance. What is suitable for the Arab Gulf countries? JF Saudi Medical Journal JO Saudi Med J FD Prince Sultan Military Medical City SP 743 OP 748 VO 22 IS 9 A1 Samir N. Banoob YR 2001 UL http://smj.org.sa/content/22/9/743.abstract AB Most countries are exploring and implementing reforms of their health care systems. The Arab countries in the Gulf are no exception after establishing modern governmental health care systems accessible to all and free of charge. Current problems of the Arab systems include financial, managerial and quality issues. The private sector in these countries has no defined national role and is gowing abruptly and unplanned. The paper presents the major global health reform directions, analyzing the current activities in the Arab Gulf countries and proposing certain practical relevant approaches for health reform, and expansion of insurance in these activites.