Dubai Health Enhances Organ Donation Skills Among Healthcare Professionals In UAE

Dubai Health recently hosted a training programme titled Essential Skills in Organ Donation. This initiative aimed to boost the expertise of healthcare workers involved in organ donation and transplantation, ensuring they meet international medical standards. The programme was supported by the Ministry of Health and Prevention, Department of Health Abu Dhabi, and Dubai Health Authority.

Participants received a professional certificate from Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) and earned 35.5 credit hours in continuing medical education accredited by the Dubai Health Authority. A total of 55 professionals, including doctors, nurses, technicians, and coordinators from across the UAE, attended this two-day event at MBRU.

The training took place at MBRU’s Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor Medical Simulation Center. Attendees engaged in realistic scenarios that mirrored actual situations. This hands-on approach enabled them to practice their roles effectively, enhancing their skills in managing organ donation cases with professionalism.

The programme also featured theoretical sessions and practical workshops. These provided comprehensive training on human organ donation essentials, aligned with the latest global practices. Specialists from various organisations presented the training, including Emirates Health Services and Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi.

Two families shared their inspiring organ donation experiences with participants. Hamdan Al Mulla, an Emirati father, discussed donating his kidney to save his nine-year-old son Rashid's life. The surgery at Rashid Hospital in Dubai significantly improved his son's health and quality of life.

Nathalie Groll, a French resident, recounted her decision to donate her deceased son Vego's organs. Her choice helped save five lives. Such stories highlighted the profound impact of organ donation as a humanitarian act that saves lives.

Commitment to Healthcare Progress

Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of MBRU, stated: "Dubai Health is committed to supporting organ donation and transplantation in the UAE. This includes advancing the professional development of our healthcare professionals within our integrated academic health system." He emphasised the importance of working with partners to strengthen collective efforts in this field.

The programme primarily targeted licensed healthcare practitioners such as physicians, nurses, and allied health technicians working in intensive care, emergency medicine, neurology, and internal medicine. It aligns with Dubai Health Authority’s goal to train 70% of intensive care teams in essential organ donation skills.

Continued Efforts in Organ Donation

Dubai Health remains at the forefront of organ donation initiatives across the UAE. It has successfully facilitated over 280 transplant procedures through its facilities with support from more than 90 donor families. These efforts reflect a commitment to enhancing healthcare services related to organ donation.

With inputs from WAM