With a population of over 9 million people from over 200 different nationalities living in the United Arab Emirates, it is safe to say that we are living in one of the most unique and diverse countries in the world in great harmony. Diversity with all its benefits, it can be extremely challenging in any healthcare system.  Providing different medical needs to address different groups of patients effectively is definitely a big concern, but in UAE this is not the case. With establishing a massive network of hospitals and clinics, some are affiliated with the best medical institutes in the world; access to care is a major point of focus in this country. Access to care which means the ability to receive the appropriate medical service in a timely manner is quite essential, as it is associated with the best health outcome. Medical care should be accessible to everyone, no matter the age, sex or race, thus the country was among one the first countries in the region who mandated health insurance specifically in 2 of its emirates; Abu Dhabi and Dubai. In addition to securing the access to healthcare to all the habitants of these 2 emirates, the UAE was the first in the region to utilize the Emirates ID card as the medical insurance card. The use of a single card facilitates and unifies a lot of processes in addition it avoids the confusion of acquiring or carrying multiple cards all at once.

As the healthcare system is still developing in the country and the provision of medical services to a diverse community is a challenge, quality measures and national screening programs are both areas of major focus in UAE. Ensuring the best and up to date medical services are provided to everyone in addition to promoting national health campaigns will not only lead to a healthier community but a happier one too.

Dr. Sara Al-Dallal