DHA Reports Significant Growth In Telehealth Services And New Clinical Guidelines For Digital Health

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has advanced its telehealth services, enhancing Dubai's digital health sector. A recent DHA report reveals that telehealth consultations reached nearly 375,000 in 2023, marking a 28% rise from 2022. Electronic prescriptions also saw a significant increase, surpassing 230,000, which is a 103% jump over the same period.

The report indicates that 85% of telehealth consultations were completed within two days. Patient satisfaction with these services was at 92%, while healthcare providers reported a satisfaction rate of 97%. To further solidify Dubai's leadership in digital health, DHA organised a workshop to introduce new clinical guidelines for telehealth treatments.

These guidelines are designed to assist physicians both locally and internationally by providing a comprehensive reference for best practices in virtual healthcare. They aim to standardise and improve the quality of care provided through telehealth services.

The newly introduced clinical guidelines include various protocols based on international standards. They offer detailed recommendations on clinical pathways, referral indicators, necessary follow-ups, and essential investigations. Developed in collaboration with Karger, a renowned medical publisher, these guidelines are available online through international platforms.

Dr. Marwan Al Mulla, CEO of the Health Regulation Sector at DHA, stated that Dubai’s healthcare sector is rapidly transforming in terms of infrastructure and technology. He emphasised DHA's commitment to enhancing Dubai’s global standing in healthcare with a focus on digital health.

Advancements in Telehealth Services

Dr. Al Mulla highlighted the progress in telehealth services as evidence of Dubai’s advanced medical capabilities. He noted the expertise of healthcare professionals managing these services and the use of smart solutions. The new clinical guidelines serve as a comprehensive reference for remote healthcare providers within and outside the UAE.

Dr. Hanan Obaid, Director of Health Policies and Standards at DHA’s Health Regulation Sector, mentioned that the new guidelines support Dubai's digital health strategy by expanding telehealth services' scope. These high-level standards align with international medical practices.

Regulatory Framework and Provider Recognition

Dr. Hanan pointed out that since 2017, DHA has established a regulatory framework for telehealth services. This involved extensive engagement with stakeholders to develop standards and policies supporting Dubai’s digital health strategy. Currently, over 140 telehealth service providers are licensed by DHA.

At the workshop's conclusion, several telehealth providers were honoured by DHA. Recognised entities included the "Doctor for Every Citizen" programme and independent providers like "TruDoc Healthcare" and "Health at Hand." Large hospital groups such as "Mediclinic Middle East," "Prime Healthcare Group," and "Medcare Hospitals," along with outpatient clinics like "Emirates Airline Group," were also acknowledged.

Dubai continues to lead in digital health advancements through strategic initiatives like these workshops and guidelines. The city remains committed to leveraging innovative technologies to achieve sustainable health solutions globally while maintaining high standards locally.

With inputs from WAM