Tag: medical

DUBAI: Dr Mohammed Salim Al Olama, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), emphasised that World Health Day (WHD) marks a significant occasion for the ministry to reaffirm its commitment to promoting health awareness and encouraging healthy behaviours within the community.

In a statement marking World Health Day (WHD), Al Olama stressed that MoHAP is forging ahead in line with the vision of the UAE’s wise leadership, which places the health and quality of life of the country’s residents at the top of its agenda, recognising the essential role of health as a foundational element necessary for achieving the UAE’s aspirations for prosperity and all-encompassing growth for its society. The WHD is celebrated annually on 7th April and each year draws attention to a specific health topic of concern to people all over the world.

He highlighted that commemorating this international day provides an opportunity to express pride in the remarkable milestones achieved by the UAE, which have signi
ficantly enhanced the efficiency of its healthcare system and boosted the effectiveness of medical personnel.

Al Olama expressed his appreciation for tireless efforts and the humanitarian role medical professionals fulfil, acknowledging their immense sacrifices that serve as inspiration to all, wishing them further success and excellence.

He clarified that the theme for World Health Day, “My Health is My Right,” aims to underscore the universal entitlement of every individual to access healthcare services and uphold their health and well-being.

He stressed the fundamental importance of health as a basic human right, advocating for efforts to ensure the provision of high-quality healthcare services for all without discrimination and at affordable costs. Al Olama highlighted that achieving universal health coverage is a crucial objective that not only promotes the health and well-being of all individuals but also plays a pivotal role in fostering healthier and more sustainable communities.

‘Thanks to the UA
E’s commitment to delivering advanced and innovative health services, implementing preventative initiatives and strategies, as well as treatment projects that align with the latest global developments in healthcare and the incorporation of cutting-edge medical technologies, the country has achieved remarkable successes in the health sector.’ This progress has positioned it among the ranks of developed countries regionally and globally in this field,” he further stated.

‘On this occasion, coinciding with the 76th anniversary of the founding of the World Health Organisation, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting the health and well-being of the UAE community. We also reiterate our pledge as a distinguished partner of the organisation, working together to reach global health targets by adopting new health policies that boost personal health and create a lasting, healthy environment,’ Al Olama added.

Source: Emirates News Agency

ABU DHABI: The United Arab Emirates will mark the World Health Day (WHD) tomorrow, 7th April, which this year is themed “My Health, My Right” with the aim of advocating for the right of everyone, everywhere, to access decent health services and care without discrimination.

The theme of this year’s observance fits well with the vision of the United Arab Emirates and its efforts to promote a developed, integrated and accessible and affordable health system for all, which focuses on improving the quality of life of individuals, supports healthy lifestyles, and enjoys the highest levels of readiness for the future and quality in specialized care.

The event is an opportunity to highlight the achievements of the health sector in the United Arab Emirates, which continues to have a regional and international leadership in terms of medical services and scientific achievements, reaffirming its readiness and ability to face all health challenges in accordance with the best international standards and systems.

The UAE
has made remarkable achievements in the global health competitiveness indexes. The UAE came first globally in measles immunisation, according to the Prosperity Index 2023, issued by Legatum Institute. The UAE also ranked first globally and in the Arab world in prenatal care coverage, low infant mortality rate, injuries from natural disasters, and the presence of national early detection programmes.

According to the 2023 Sustainable Development Goals Index issued by the Bertelsmann Stiftung Foundation and the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network, the UAE also ranked first in the world for number of births registered with the civil authorities.

The UAE also ranked first in the world in the extent of health care coverage and the lack of fuel-caused air pollution inside of homes, according to the Prosperity Index 2023.

The country also placed first in the Arab world and second globally in terms of satisfaction with health care, based on a measurement of the population’s satisfaction with th
e availability of quality health care through a Gallup World Poll.

The UAE also ranked first in the Arab world and second globally in the rate of tuberculosis infection per 100,000 population, according to the 2023 Sustainable Development Goals Index.

The country’s health authorities and their strategic partners have implemented many preventive strategies to reduce and control the spread of tuberculosis, including unifying surveillance methods and treatment systems.

The UAE Health Council, which coordinates efforts among federal and local health service providers, as well as the private sector, to promote integration and enhance the quality of healthcare in the country, addresses common challenges in the healthcare sector and works collaboratively with relevant authorities to implement appropriate measures. It also examines proposed laws, regulations, and guidelines related to the healthcare industry, providing feedback and recommendations to the appropriate authorities, and promotes scientific research an
d studies.

During a meeting held on Thursday, 21st March, the Council endorsed several decisions aimed at bolstering the health sector and fostering a cohesive approach between federal and local health authorities along with strategic partners. The UAE Health Council discussed key strategic initiatives in the country’s health sector including plans for establishing a national centre for epidemic prevention as well as the latest developments on the health cloud project.

The health cloud project utilises cutting-edge cloud computing technology, offering a secure platform for storing, sharing, and managing health data. It facilitates quick and easy access to health information, thereby enhancing the quality and efficiency of healthcare services.

From improving communication between health providers and patients, to fostering innovation in health research, and providing advanced analytical capabilities for identifying health trends and diseases, the health cloud project paves the way for enhancing healthcare d
elivery and outcomes.

In December 2023, the COP28 Presidency joined with the World Health Organisation (WHO) announced a new ”COP28 UAE Declaration on Climate and Health” to accelerate actions to protect people’s health from growing climate impact.

Signed by 123 countries, the Declaration marks a world first in acknowledging the need for governments to protect communities and prepare healthcare systems to cope with climate-related health impacts such as extreme heat, air pollution and infectious diseases.

The Declaration covers a range of action areas at the nexus of climate and health, including building more climate-resilient health systems, strengthening cross-sectoral collaboration to reduce emissions and maximise the health benefits of climate action, and increasing finance for climate and health solutions. Signatories have also committed to incorporate health targets in their national climate plans and improve international collaboration to address the health risks of climate change, including at f
uture COPs.

During COP28, the United Arab Emirates demonstrated its commitment to shaping a bright future for the healthcare sector and setting new global standards by adopting a comprehensive approach that focuses primarily on the principles of excellence in environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards, which contribute to enabling the healthcare sector to meet future needs.

The UAE highlighted its commitment to sustainability and its efforts to reduce the environmental impact of the healthcare sector.

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has unveiled an updated version of the UAE National Framework on Climate Change and Health as a proactive measure against the health impacts of climate change and air pollution.

Developed in collaboration with the World Health Organisation and coordination with relevant government agencies at the state level, the framework is designed to safeguard community well-being and mitigate climate-related health risks.

The updated framework was announced during
a session organised by the Ministry on the sidelines of the ongoing COP28 at Expo City Dubai. The national framework is built on several key pillars, including governance, policies, and community engagement to safeguard health from climate change effects.

It also emphasises the need for resilient health systems, efficient surveillance, early warning, response mechanisms, and the enhancement of environmental health interventions. Furthermore, the framework aims to garner support for bolstering public health responses to climate change challenges.

Sure, here is the translation of the Arabic text you provided:

The United Arab Emirates is working to develop its health sector in order to support its capabilities to face various challenges. Spending on this vital sector has witnessed increasing growth over the past years. While AED3.835 billion were allocated for health services and community prevention in the UAE federal budget in 2016, the allocations rose significantly to AED5.2 billion in the general budget
for 2024.

The UAE is also working to strengthen its multiple international partnerships in the health field and is keen to promote innovation and development in this sector. Over the past years, the UAE has worked on the intensive use of artificial intelligence technologies in the field of health within a plan that aims to integrate artificial intelligence by 100% in medical services in line with the UAE Centennial 2071.

Source: Emirates News Agency

ABU DHABI: Abdulrahman bin Mohamed Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), stressed that the UAE has successfully developed an integrated healthcare system following the best global practices, thanks to the unlimited support and wise directives of its leadership.

‘From harnessing all resources to enhancing quality of life and securing enduring accomplishments, the country’s healthcare system is fundamentally designed to ensure the well-being and happiness of people,’ the Minister said.

In a statement on World Health Day (WHD), which coincides with the World Health Organisation’s 76th founding anniversary, celebrated under the theme “My Health is My Right,” Al Owais said: ‘The UAE views healthcare as a fundamental right for both its citizens and residents, with health policies geared towards delivering top-notch services and safeguarding patient rights in line with global benchmarks.’ The WHD is celebrated annually on 7th April and each year draws attention to a specific health topic of concern
to people all over the world. According to WHO, this year’s theme was chosen to champion the right of everyone, everywhere to have access to quality health services, education, and information, as well as safe drinking water, clean air, good nutrition, quality housing, decent working and environmental conditions.

‘Positioned as a beacon of innovation, the UAE aspires to be the source of creative ideas and solutions, thereby solidifying its role as a pivotal and influential entity in the global healthcare landscape. The UAE is committed not only to serving the needs of its population but also to extending its capabilities to benefit communities regionally and globally, in line with the aspirations of the UAE Centennial 2071.’

He emphasised that the continuous development of the UAE’s healthcare sector is a national strategic priority, necessitating cooperation among domestic health authorities. This collaborative approach seeks to enhance the sector’s competitiveness, adaptability, efficacy, and alignment wi
th the nation’s overarching agenda, which prioritizes human well-being.

He highlighted that the rapid progression of health and digital services plays a pivotal role in fortifying the UAE’s sustainable preventive healthcare infrastructure. Simultaneously, national initiatives, driven by collective endeavours, are unfolding in accordance with a forward-looking vision aimed at promoting healthcare standards and enhancing quality of life.

Al Owais expressed his gratitude and appreciation to all health and technical leaders and staff in the health sector, as well as to strategic partners from both governmental and private organizations.

He underscored the significance of their constructive and fruitful cooperation, which greatly contributes to improving the health, happiness, and quality of life of the UAE community, something which aligns with the nation’s ambitious goals for the forthcoming decades.

Source: Emirates News Agency

ABU DHABI: The National Health Insurance Company (Daman), part of PureHealth has launched a new option for renewing Abu Dhabi Basic Plans for domestic workers via TAMM, Abu Dhabi’s unified digital government platform.

In alignment with the digital transformation initiatives, this new process aims to streamline access to healthcare services for insurance renewals while elevating Daman’s commitment to enhancing customer experiences. The process for renewing the Abu Dhabi Basic Plans has been optimised via TAMM and customers can complete policy renewals in just 15 minutes.

Daman offers a streamlined service, encompassing the renewal of Abu Dhabi Basic Plans for domestic workers and covering any fines incurred due to delays in health insurance renewals. The entire process, completed within minutes, eliminates the need for document submissions, using the digital identity linkage feature. Once payment is completed, the insurance policy renewal is activated within 15 minutes, and customers receive a confirmation e
mail indicating the activation of policies for sponsored individuals.

The new renewal process of Abu Dhabi Basic Plans for domestic workers via TAMM is available through this link or by searching for the Renew Health Insurance – Daman service.

The Abu Dhabi Basic Health Insurance Plan, supported by Abu Dhabi Government, covers domestic workers sponsored by citizens or residents, who receive a wage of AED5,000 or less without housing provided by the sponsor, or AED4,000 or less if housing is provided by the sponsor.

Source: Emirates News Agency

DUBAI: The Cardiac Catheterisation Unit at Al Qassimi Hospital in Sharjah, under Emirates Health Services, successfully carried out three procedures this month at the Cardiac Center to treat high blood pressure using the ‘Paradise’ system. The procedures were performed on three patients aged 45 to 75, who have been grappling with persistently unstable blood pressure despite being on medications for over four different types.

These three operations signify a groundbreaking leap in catheterisation techniques utilising the ‘Paradise’ system, first to offer by Emirates Health Services and implemented at Al Qassimi Hospital as a cutting-edge technological solution for high blood pressure treatment. This advancement sets a new standard in the Middle East region. The catheterisation process with ‘Paradise’ involves the precise heating and isolation of the sympathetic nerves encasing the renal arteries, pivotal in hypertension management. Moreover, it emits ultrasound waves penetrating the artery wall within a range
of 1-6 millimetres using balloons of varying sizes from 3.5 mm to 8 mm. Each artery requires 2 to 4 waves, with each wave lasting approximately 7 seconds.

Dr. Essam Al Zarooni, Acting Executive Director of Clinical Services Sector at EHS, emphasised that the EHS’ role transcends providing high-quality healthcare. It extends to innovation and offering the latest medical technologies and equipment that enhance treatment processes and deliver exceptional medical services to the community. EHS demonstrates a steadfast commitment to providing comprehensive and specialised healthcare to patients through advanced medical procedures like catheterisation at the Cardiac Center in Al Qassimi Hospital using the ‘Paradise’ system. This further solidifies its position as a leading healthcare entity at both the local and global levels.

Dr. Arif Al Nooryani, Director of Al Qassimi Hospital in Sharjah, emphasised the importance of conducting catheterisation procedures using the ‘Paradise’ system to deliver precise and effic
ient treatment for heart patients grappling with conditions like unstable high blood pressure. These interventions not only improve patients’ quality of life and mitigate severe health complications associated with such conditions but also reduce the risks of heart attacks and strokes, ultimately bolstering the community’s overall health. Al Nooryani highlighted Emirates Health Services’ commitment to embracing cutting-edge technologies, exemplified by its pioneering introduction of this technology in the Middle East region.

The catheterisation procedure using the ‘Paradise’ system usually takes around an hour, and patients are discharged from the hospital within 24 hours. The cost of the operation ranges between AED40,000 and AED60,000. It is noteworthy that the Cardiology Department at Al Qassimi Hospital pioneered the treatment of high blood pressure using thermal ablation catheters and modern technology in the country back in 2011.

Source: Emirates News Agency

DUBAI: The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has launched an awareness campaign called “Redefine Yourself in Ramadan” during the holy month of Ramadan. The campaign aims to promote health consciousness and healthy lifestyles among community members through health consultations, educational materials, and promoting balanced diets and physical activity. It focuses on three core themes: “choose, cook, and eat healthy” and addresses various health aspects such as sleep patterns and smoking cessation.

Utilising social media platforms, the programme disseminates awareness messages on the significance of adopting healthy lifestyles during Ramadan. Engaging the community further, the campaign includes “Ramadan riddles,” interactive quizzes, and a 30-day physical activity challenge. This challenge is complemented by complimentary access to sports clubs across the UAE, alongside organised sports activities in health and leisure clubs, and workshops emphasising the significance of pre-shopping planning to promo
te healthy dietary choices during the fasting month.

The initiative also provides guidelines on adopting healthier eating habits, such as increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables, managing meal portions during Ramadan, and offering healthier dietary alternatives. This includes advocating for less fried foods, endorsing baked or grilled options, and advising on reducing salt intake, all aimed at fostering a healthier community during and beyond the sacred month.

Promoting healthy behaviors

‘We are committed to launching a health awareness initiative every year timed with Ramadan to enhance societal health awareness, advocate for healthy lifestyles, assist individuals in choosing nutritious foods, and emphasise key health and nutritional practices during this holy month,’ said Dr Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Undersecretary for the Public Health Sector.

‘Our goal is to embed healthy behaviours that contribute to the reduction of heart disease, obesity, and diabetes, thus improving our nation
al health indicators. Given the distinct dietary and lifestyle shifts during Ramadan, particularly the intensified eating patterns post-Iftar, it becomes crucial to implement specialised awareness campaigns. These campaigns are tailored to foster healthy lifestyles through preventive and community health programmes, aiming to promote health quality,” he added.

“Considering the remarkable changes in dietary and lifestyle habits during Ramadan, it’s crucial to launch health awareness initiatives tailored to the month’s uniqueness. The distinct dietary patterns observed necessitate customised programmes. Therefore, MoHAP concentrates on crafting awareness campaigns that resonate with this specificity to support and enhance public health and the quality of life during the holy month and beyond, incorporating preventive and community-based programmes to foster healthy living standards,” Al Rand stated.

Nouf Khamis Al Ali, Director of the Health Promotion Department at MoHAP, emphasised the crucial impact of the
campaign, noting that this month provides a prime opportunity for the community to adopt healthier lifestyles.

She stressed that it’s very important for everyone to consume a balanced diet, exercise for at least 30 minutes every day, and for those smoking to quit their habit and alter unhealthy eating styles.

Khamis advocated breaking the fast with a nutritious meal to provide essential energy and aid digestion post-fasting.

She also encouraged the community to engage with the health awareness campaign via the Ministry’s social media channels to extend the campaign’s reach to a broader audience and fulfil its goal of improving the overall quality of healthy living.

Source: Emirates News Agency

DUBAI: Public Health Centres and Medical Fitness Examination Centres affiliated with Emirates Health Services (EHS) administered more than 1.27 million medical fitness tests for residency visa applicants in the previous year.

This highlights EHS’ continuous commitment to enhancing its services, meeting customers’ needs and expectations, and improving their overall experience.

March of the previous year witnessed the highest number of medical fitness tests for residency visas, amounting to 113,398. Conversely, April of the same year saw the lowest number with 84,461 individuals. The health centres efficiently and smoothly managed appointment scheduling and visa examinations during this period.

Dr. Shamsa Lootah, Director of the Public Health Department at EHS, confirmed that the health centres efficiently conducted medical fitness examinations for residency visas for over 1.27 million individuals. She noted that monthly visits to the centres typically ranged between 90,000 and 113,000. Dr. Lootah highlighte
d EHS’ dedication to providing the necessary healthcare infrastructure to meet the increasing demand for individuals.

She highlighted that these substantial efforts align with the EHS’ dedication to delivering top-tier healthcare and safeguarding the well-being of the UAE’s population and residents. She emphasised that medical examinations are a fundamental component of the essential measures to uphold the UAE’s public health standards.

Source: Emirates News Agency

GENEVA: WHO member states agreed to resume negotiations aimed at finalising a pandemic agreement during 29th April to 10th May. The decision came at the end of two weeks of intensive country-led discussions on critical subjects aimed at making all countries of the world better prepared for, and able to effectively and equitably respond to future pandemics.

This ninth meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB9) started on 18th March and ended 28th March. Government negotiators discussed all articles from the draft agreement, including adequate financing for pandemic preparedness, equitable access to medical countermeasures needed during pandemics and health workforce strengthening.

‘Our member states are fully aware of how important the pandemic agreement is for protecting future generations from the suffering we endured through the COVID-19 pandemic,’ said WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. ‘I thank them for their clear commitment to finding common ground and finalising this h
istoric agreement in time for the World Health Assembly.’

Next month’s resumption of INB9 will be a critical milestone ahead of the Seventy-seventh World Health Assembly, starting 27th May 2024, at which member states are scheduled to consider the proposed text of the world’s first pandemic agreement for adoption.

Dr. Precious Matsoso, Co-Chair of the INB Bureau, said, ‘There is clear recognition from governments that the goal of a pandemic agreement is to prepare the world for preventing and responding to future pandemics, built on consensus, solidarity and equity. These goals must remain our North Star as we move toward the finalisation of this historic, pressing commitment for the world. We know that if we fail, we will be failing humanity, including all those who suffered from COVID-19, and those at risk of future pandemics.’

Fellow INB Bureau Co-Chair, Roland Driece, said, ‘Governments said clearly we cannot fail to reach an agreement at the next World Health Assembly to make the world healthier, fair
er and safer from pandemics. We are at the finishing line, and we are committed to maximising the remaining negotiations to reach the result the entire world needs.’

In December 2021, the World Health Assembly met in a Special Session, the second-ever since WHO’s founding in 1948, and decided to establish the INB to draft and negotiate a WHO convention, agreement, or other international instrument on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response. The process has involved the participation of other United Nations system bodies, non-state actors, other relevant stakeholders, and the public.

Source: Emirates News Agency