2012 outlook for health in the UAE

Authorities are implementing strategies that in the coming year could help make quality health care services more accessible to residents.

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) continues to open primary health care centres, with a 6,500-square-metre set to open in Al Barsha by mid-year. The DHA is also working on a National Health Account to monitor the emirate's health-care spending and see where further investment is needed. By February, it will expand discounted preventative screening packages to all 16 primary health care centres.

Sheikh Khalifa Specialist Hospital in Ras Al Khaimah is on course for completion in the first half of this year. The Dh1 billion facility is one of several due to open in the emirate in 2012.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health is planning to begin implementation of the electronic medical licensing of all health care professionals. The ministry's Sharjah Blood Transfusion and Research Centre is also expecting to receive accreditation from the American Association of Blood Banks.