Dubai Health Authority

Dubai Health Authority (DHA) is the principal governing body responsible for overseeing the health system in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Established under the directive of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the DHA aims to provide an accessible, effective, and integrated healthcare system, protect public health, and improve the quality of life within the Emirate.

History

The Dubai Health Authority was officially established in 2007 by Law 13 issued by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Before its establishment, the Department of Health and Medical Services (DOHMS), which was created in the 1970s, was responsible for health services in Dubai. The transformation into DHA was aimed at enhancing the health sector's efficiency and service delivery.

Objectives and Functions

The main objectives of the DHA include ensuring access to health services, improving the quality of healthcare, promoting public health, and ensuring the efficient use of resources. It oversees the operation of all public hospitals, primary health care centers, and clinics in Dubai. Additionally, it regulates the private health sector and professionals, ensuring compliance with health standards and regulations.

Regulatory Role

The DHA is responsible for licensing healthcare professionals and facilities, setting healthcare standards, and ensuring compliance with those standards. It also works on health policy formulation, strategic planning, and the implementation of various health-related initiatives and programs.

Health Services

The authority provides a wide range of health services through its network of hospitals, primary healthcare centers, and specialized care centers. These services include preventive care, curative care, rehabilitative services, and palliative care.

Initiatives and Programs

The DHA has launched several initiatives aimed at improving healthcare services and public health in Dubai. These include the Dubai Health Strategy 2021, which focuses on innovation, the use of smart health technologies, and the enhancement of public-private partnerships. Other notable initiatives include the Salama Electronic Medical Record System, which integrates patient records across DHA facilities, and the Dubai Health Experience (DXH), aimed at promoting Dubai as a global destination for medical tourism.

Challenges and Achievements

While the DHA has made significant strides in improving healthcare in Dubai, it faces challenges such as coping with the rapid population growth, the high prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases, and ensuring healthcare sustainability. Despite these challenges, the authority has achieved notable successes, including the accreditation of its facilities by international healthcare accreditation bodies and the implementation of innovative healthcare technologies.

See Also

• Healthcare in the United Arab Emirates
• Ministry of Health and Prevention (UAE)
• Abu Dhabi Health Services Company

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