Special Olympics UAE Celebrates Accreditation Of Unified Healthcare Providers And Health Messengers

Special Olympics UAE recently celebrated the accreditation of 16 healthcare facilities as Unified Healthcare Providers at the Abu Dhabi Energy Centre. This event also recognised strategic partners and medical leaders who support inclusive health initiatives. Additionally, 13 Special Olympics UAE athletes were appointed as Health Messengers, highlighting their role in promoting health awareness.

The Unified Healthcare Providers Programme, initiated in 2021 with backing from the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, the Department of Community Development, and the Mohammed bin Rashid Center for Special Education, aims to equip medical teams to provide equitable healthcare to People of Determination. This year’s accredited facilities include Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Al Reem Hospital, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, NMC Shahama Hospital, and Sakina Platform.

Strategic partners acknowledged for their contributions to inclusive health included organisations like Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, Autism Intervention Specialist, Apollonia Dental Clinic, Zayed Authority for People of Determination, Aldar, Gulf Medical University, Healthpoint, Sebamed, University of Sharjah and OneSight Foundation. Eleven additional programme supporters such as Dubai Health Authority and Abu Dhabi Health Services Company – Seha were also honoured.

The UAE has maintained its Healthy Community designation for the fourth year under the Special Olympics International Healthy Communities Programme. This initiative aims to reduce global health disparities for People of Determination. ADNOC's strategic partnership has been crucial in sustaining this recognition by supporting various health programmes.

Empowering Health Messengers

Thirteen new Health Messengers and 15 health mentors were introduced. The programme empowers People of Determination with leadership skills to advocate for healthy habits and promote inclusion. Arti Shah, a graduate of the programme, shared her experience: "My experience in the Health Messenger programme was amazing. I learned many new topics and how to express myself more openly and confidently. It taught me that no matter what you dream of, don’t give up. Anyone can overcome challenges and make a difference."

Talal Al Hashemi, National Director of Special Olympics UAE, emphasised their commitment to enabling People of Determination to contribute to national development. He highlighted that inclusive health programmes developed since 2019 aim to ensure high standards of care and quality of life.

Through initiatives like Healthy Communities and Unified Healthcare Providers, Special Olympics UAE continues to enhance inclusive healthcare services. These efforts empower People of Determination to lead fulfilling lives while advocating for better health practices within their communities.

With inputs from WAM