Dubai, UAE: In a push to promote medical tourism in the emirate, Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) will open specialised centres for oncology, genetic disorders and diabetes as well as close the gap in services by adding facilities like rehab, paediatrics and integrated medicine.
Recently Gulf News reported that the DHCC’s plan to position itself as the medical hub for international and regional patients was spurred by increase in the number of patients visiting Dubai for treatment and more investment coming into the city.
According to the research firm Business Monitor International, health tourism in the UAE is growing at 15 per cent annually.
Last year, the DHCC recorded a sharp growth in medical tourism with over 502,000 patients in 2011 including 15 per cent medical tourists compared to 10 per cent of a total of 412,000 patients in 2010. It estimates that medical tourism in the emirate will generate Dh6.1 billion by the end of 2012. In a media statement, Dr Ayesha Abdullah, Managing Director of DHCC said that the UAE has strongly established itself as one of the top destinations for medical tourism in the Middle East with Dubai driving the demand for global standard healthcare services, against cost-competitive destinations such as Thailand and India.
Speaking of the potential for further growth, Dr Ayesha said, that Dubai is strategically positioned itself as a leading provider of top-quality care in diverse areas with a focus on niche services. The DHCC seeks to provide high-end tertiary care so that it remains at the forefront among the regional players.
She said, “Medical travellers have come to Dubai for cosmetic procedures, dental treatment and even hip-replacements. The UAE and particularly Dubai offers quality healthcare solutions that largely measure up against cost-competitive destinations. The figures show that a cardiac bypass costing around $130,000 in the US can be had for $44,000 in the UAE.”
She explained that medical tourists select Dubai due to its shorter waiting times and high quality of medical care. “Dubai Healthcare City offers affordable options for specialty care that are at par with international standards of quality and success rates. With its strategic location, quality of care and accessibility, the DHCC is well equipped to become a leading medical travel destination in the UAE.”
She added, we have also seen a growing trend in patients choosing complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).
Currently, the DHCC is home to 12 CAM medical centres, more than 50 CAM-licensed professionals who offer treatment in 14 areas, including homeopathy, Ayurveda, traditional Chinese medicine, Unani medicine, osteopathy, therapeutic massage, naturopathy, guided imagery, Tai Chi, Pilates, chiropractic and yoga.
© Gulf News
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