Abu Dhabi Enhances Healthcare Access with International Physicians Initiative
By Samihah Zaman (Abu Dhabi)
In a significant advancement for patient care, Abu Dhabi is set to welcome a cadre of distinguished physicians from across the globe this July as part of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi’s (DoH) Visiting Physicians Programme. This initiative, which aims to bolster the emirate’s healthcare offerings, brings top specialists in fields such as pediatric oncology, plastic surgery, ophthalmology, and spinal care directly to the community.
The DoH’s announcement, made public via its official social media channels, underscores the government’s commitment to providing comprehensive healthcare services. The initiative is designed not only to attract esteemed medical professionals but also to enhance local healthcare capabilities and ensure that residents have access to expert advice and treatment without the necessity of travelling abroad.
Among the esteemed guests is Dr. Michael Grimley, a renowned pediatric hematologist-oncologist from Cincinnati Children’s Hospital in the United States. Dr. Grimley, who specializes in conditions such as anemia, sickle cell disease, and various forms of leukemia, will be available for patient consultations at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City from July 7 to July 11, 2025. His expertise is particularly vital in addressing the complex needs of children battling hematologic malignancies and related disorders.
Another notable expert participating in this initiative is Paul Geelen, ocularist at the Artificial Eye Services Hospital in Perth, Australia. With over two decades of experience in crafting and fitting bespoke artificial eyes, Geelen will be consulting at Moorfields Eye Hospital from July 13 to July 17, 2025. His involvement highlights the DoH’s emphasis on providing comprehensive specialized services, particularly for those with ocular disabilities.
Meanwhile, Dr. Zeeshan Sardar, Associate Chief of Spine and Scoliosis Surgery at New York Presbyterian Hospital, will provide consultations at Healthpoint Hospital from July 28 to August 1, 2025. Dr. Sardar brings a wealth of knowledge in treating complex spine disorders, including adult scoliosis and ankylosing spondylitis. The significance of his expertise is especially relevant in light of the increasing prevalence of spinal conditions among the adult population in the region.
Additionally, Dr. Joon Pio Hong, a consultant plastic surgeon from Asan Medical Center in South Korea, will address patients suffering from conditions such as lymphoedema and diabetic foot complications at Tarmeem Hospital and Healthpoint Hospital throughout July. His presence further exemplifies the initiative’s goal of providing diverse medical services, catering to a wide spectrum of health needs prevalent in the region.
The Visiting Physicians Programme, launched in 2021, aims to elevate healthcare standards within the emirate by facilitating direct interactions between patients and leading medical professionals from around the world. Since its inception, the program has successfully enabled over 300 surgical procedures and facilitated treatment for more than 3,200 patients, demonstrating its essential role in enhancing the healthcare infrastructure of Abu Dhabi.
The DoH strongly encourages patients and their families to seize this opportunity to consult with these visiting experts by scheduling appointments through the respective healthcare facilities. This initiative not only bridges gaps in specialized care but also fosters an environment where knowledge can be exchanged between visiting and local healthcare professionals.
Looking ahead, the DoH’s commitment to continuous improvement in healthcare services is paramount. By regularly sourcing global expertise, the Department aims to not only bolster medical care standards but also enhance the overall health literacy of the community. This proactive approach signifies a larger trend within the Emirati healthcare landscape, which is increasingly oriented towards innovating and integrating world-class medical solutions.
In an era where telemedicine and digital health solutions are on the rise, initiatives like the Visiting Physicians Programme reaffirm the importance of personal, face-to-face consultations in the medical field. By prioritizing accessibility to expert care, Abu Dhabi is setting a precedent for other regions and asserting its position as a hub for medical excellence in the Gulf region.
Tags: #UAE #HealthcareNews #EconomyNews