Muscat – The Ministry of Health (MoH) has clarified that a circular being circulated on social media regarding mandatory drug screening for newly recruited employees in the public and private sectors is not a final decision, but an internal directive issued to discuss implementation mechanisms.

In a statement on Monday, the ministry said the document was intended to facilitate consultations among relevant departments and stressed that no policy would be implemented until coordination with the competent authorities is completed and implementation procedures and timelines are finalised.

The clarification follows widespread discussion on social media after the internal memo surfaced, prompting speculation that compulsory drug testing for new employees had been approved.

MoH stated that any decision taken would be announced through official channels only after all legal, administrative and technical procedures have been completed.

It added that the proposal is part of broader efforts to strengthen preventive healthcare policies, curb the misuse of narcotic and psychotropic substances, protect public health and promote safer workplaces.

The ministry urged the public to rely on its official communication platforms for accurate information and refrain from sharing unverified reports. It said further details, including the scope, implementation framework and timeline, would be announced if the proposal is approved.