DHA Integrates AI In NABIDH Initiative To Enhance Patient Data Security And Privacy

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has incorporated artificial intelligence (AI) into the ‘NABIDH’ system to bolster patient data security and privacy. This collaboration with Imprivata underscores DHA's commitment to digital health transformation, enhancing patient trust and solidifying Dubai's status as a leader in digital innovation. The announcement was made at an event attended by Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi, Director-General of DHA, along with healthcare officials and technology experts.

Awadh Al Ketbi emphasised DHA's dedication to protecting patient data through strategic use of advanced technologies. He noted that integrating AI into the ‘NABIDH’ system is a testament to DHA’s efforts in creating a secure and efficient digital healthcare environment. This initiative aligns with global standards for patient data protection and aims to meet patients' evolving needs.

The integration of Patient Privacy Intelligence (PPI) within NABIDH marks a significant advancement in data security across Dubai's healthcare network. By using AI-driven analytics, the system can detect potential data breaches in real time, ensuring robust protection of Personal Health Information (PHI). This proactive approach strengthens trust between healthcare providers and patients.

Mona Bajman, CEO of the Shared Support Services Sector at DHA, stated, "The implementation of Patient Privacy Intelligence within NABIDH marks a new era of secure, patient-focused digital healthcare in Dubai. By safeguarding patient data through advanced AI and behavioural analytics, we are setting a new benchmark in healthcare security and compliance."

NABIDH stands for Network & Analysis Backbone for Integrated Dubai Health. It is central to DHA’s strategy for digitising healthcare services. The initiative ensures each patient has a single electronic medical file accessible across all providers in Dubai. This effort enhances efficiency, reduces errors, and enables personalised care experiences.

Dr. Mohammed Al Redha, Director of DHA’s Health Informatics and Smart Health Department, said that ensuring patient data privacy is crucial to DHA’s digital health transformation. He added that integrating PPI into NABIDH is a major step forward in safeguarding personal health information while enabling secure access across Dubai’s healthcare ecosystem.

Strategic Partnerships Drive Innovation

DHA has successfully unified over 9.53 million patient records within an integrated electronic system linking more than 1,500 facilities to NABIDH. Additionally, 82% of Dubai’s medical workforce is now actively engaged with the system. This achievement highlights DHA’s commitment to comprehensive digital transformation characterised by transparency and security.

Khaled Esseibi from Imprivata Middle East praised DHA's dedication to patient privacy through NABIDH as commendable. He noted that Imprivata PPI provides assurance that electronic health records are managed securely, supporting Dubai’s vision of an integrated healthcare system.

Al Ketbi highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships with leading companies to enhance Dubai's capability in digital healthcare leadership. These collaborations aim to strengthen the efficiency of the healthcare system while supporting Dubai’s goal of becoming the world's smartest city where AI plays a key role.

The successful implementation of PPI as part of NABIDH reinforces Dubai's commitment to pioneering digital healthcare transformation. By leveraging AI-driven analytics, NABIDH can detect potential data breaches in real time, thereby reinforcing trust between healthcare providers and patients.

With inputs from WAM