Better Health 2009 by Hot Media

2009-10 guide

betterheal h Expert advice and essential numbers for a healthier life in Dubai

WHEN IT COMES TO MUSCULOSKELETAL DISEASES NOBODY DOES IT BETTER. Dubai Bone and Joint Center (DBAJ), the leading specialized musculoskeletal center in the region, is led by a team of internationally recognised specialist doctors and surgeons. Our dedicated center offers a full range of clinical services to treat the conditions of the - Spine, Total Joint, Sports Medicine, Foot and Ankle, Hand & Wrist, Pediatric Orthopedics and Rheumatology; all supported by a team of highly trained Radiologists and Physical Therapists, so that you can continue to receive the very best bone and joint care.

For more information call Tel: 971- 4- 423-14 0 0

We are now located at Dubai Healthcare City

Dr. Spruit

Dr. Brodzinsky

Dr. Murrell

Dr. Steijn

Dr. Khan

Dr. Badsha

Orthopedic Spinal Surgeon

Orthopedic Sports Medicine Surgeon

Orthopedic Total Joint Surgeon

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon

Rheumatologist

L o c at e d at:

OUR ADDRESS: Dubai Healthcare City, Al Razi Building - No. 64, Block F, 1st Floor, Suite 1020. Tel: +971-4-423-1400, Fax: +971-4-423-1488, www.dbaj.ae

Welcome... …to the inaugaral issue of Better Health, a new annual publication created to help you navigate the world of healthcare in Dubai. We’ve picked the brains of a panel of experts (see over page) to answer 50 of the most commonly asked health questions. We’ve also included a directory of service providers (see p43) to choose from. We wish you the very best of health!

7. The Basics 13. Insurance 17. Dental 21. Optical 25. Kids

Produced by: HOT Media Publishing FZ LLC

Production Manager Haneef Abdul

Managing Director Victoria Hazell-Thatcher

Disclaimer We contacted experts at some of the best healthcare establishments in the city and asked them to contribute answers on key health questions. HOT Media does not accept responsibility for any inaccuracies or omissions in these answers, and the views they express are not necessarily those of HOT Media. The information given in the guide is for general use only. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from HOT Media is strictly prohibited. Printed by United Printing Press.

Editorial Director Rob Orchard Publishing Director John Thatcher Advertisement Director Chris Capstick chris@hotmediapublishing.com +971 (0)4 369 0917 +971 (0)50 456 9938

31. Specialist

Sales Manager Anuradha Basu

37. Dubai Lifestyle

Contributing Editor Ele Cooper

43. Directory

Designer Jenni Dennis 1

Introduction

Better Health Guide 2009-2010

The Experts We’ve scoured the city to find some of the most clued-up experts on health matters: here’s our question-answering brains trust...

Mr. Sami Abi-Aad

Elizabeth Bain

Dr Benazir Bux

Dr Lana Dalbah

Dr Anees Fatima

Helen Gillespie

Dr Tarek Ibrahim

Sara Jones

Dr. Pietie Loubser

Dr. Michael Matly Mona Mirza

Optometrist & Group Tech. Training Mgr, Magrabi Optical

Specialist in Family Medicine, The City Hospital

Chief Clinical Officer, EHL Management Services

Dr Sanjay Parashar Cocoona Centre for Aesthetic Transformation 2

Trained midwife and doula, Dubai Doulas

Health Visitor, Infinity Clinic, Al Wasl Road

Unani Herbal GP and resident doctor at Cleopatra’s Spa

Medical Director, Magrabi Hospitals & Centers

Boston University Dental Health Center Dubai

Director of Spas, Chill Spa

Director of Biolite Skin Clinic, Dubai HealthCare City

Dr Ursula Rolef

Dr Wael Abdel Salam Dr. Khaled Sharif Administrator, Magrabi Hospitals & Centers

Senior Vice President of Dubai HealthCare City

Andy Dick

SVP Business Development, Al Kamda

Dr. Rita Kovesdi

Specialist in paediatrics, Health Bay Polyclinic

Dr. Steven Morgano Dr. Melanie Orchard

Chief Executive Officer & Chairman, Hayati Healthcare

Specialist in gastroenterology, Health Bay Polyclinic

Dr Ayesha Abdullah

Boston University Dental Health Center Dubai

Ophthalmic Surgeon, and Medical Director of Sharif Eye Centre

Junior doctor and contributing Medical Editor

Dr Michael Van Steijn Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dubai Bone & Joint Centre

UltraLASIK, the Latest Technology for Better Vision Dr. Khaled Sharif of Sharif Eye Centers (sharifeyecenter.com) is a fellow of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (London) and a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmologists. He has been a visiting professor of Ophthalmology at prestigious institutions like the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, which is nearly two hundred years old, and one of the first eye hospitals in the world. Dr. Sharif has personally performed over 50,000 laser vision correction procedures over the past 15 years, which makes him one of the most experienced LASIK surgeons in the Middle East. He is the founder and medical director of the SHARIF EYE CENTERS MEDICAL GROUP Inc.; a professional corporation dedicated to providing world-class laser vision correction procedures as well as comprehensive multi-subspecialty eye care in various cities in the Middle East. We asked Dr. Sharif about the latest technology in vision correction...

Advertisement feature What is UltraLASIK?

UltraLASIK is a combination of the two latest technologies in laser vision correction which together provide superior results while ensuring the highest level of safety. The new UltraLASIK uses a specially programmed IntraLASE technology in combination with custom Wavelight to achieve superior vision correction by creating a customised treatment that takes into account your individual needs at each step of the procedure.

How does UltraLASIK differ from traditional LASIK vision correction?

Originally, laser vision correction used laser pulses applied directly to the front of the eye. As technology progressed, it was discovered that using the corrective laser under a thin layer of the cornea improved the healing time and greatly reduced discomfort. It also yielded better results and clearer vision than previous methods. This technique was called LASIK. When corneal flap creation was first utilised in the traditional LASIK procedures, a mechanical instrument called a microkeratome was used to form this layer of the cornea with a very thin surgical blade. While LASIK complications were very rare, most were associated with this flap creation method. In UltraLASIK a new laser technology was developed as an alternative to the microkeratome leading to more precision and safety.

How do I know if I am a candidate?

The ideal candidate is over 18 years of age with healthy eyes and stable vision. UltraLASIK can correct a wide range of nearsighted (up to -15), farsighted (up to +5) and astigmatism (up to -6). Complimentary screenings are offered to help you determine if UltraLASIK is right for you.

What can UltraLASIK vision correction potentially offer?

The goal of the procedure is to reduce or eliminate your need for glasses or contact lenses. UltraLASIK offers our patients a lifestyle with fewer limitations and more freedom to enjoy their recreational and daily activities.

How is UltraLASIK performed?

This procedure is performed on out-patient basis. The eyes are numbed with very effective anaesthetic eye drops making the process quick, safe, and virtually painless. First, a protective ultra thin layer of the cornea is created

(hence the name UltraLASIK) by a laser that is computer-programmed to create soft air bubbles at a precise location under the surface of the cornea. The second step of the procedure is then performed under this layer using cool laser pulses that are designed to correct imperfections in the patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision, reshaping the cornea and restoring its focusing power to normal.

How much time do I need to take off work for surgery? Most patients can resume normal activities the next day with minimal restrictions. In general, patients can return to work within 1-2 days.

What about reading glasses? Can this be corrected by laser?

Presbyopia is a normal part of the aging process, which usually occurs around the age of 40, leading most individuals to start wearing reading glasses or bifocals. We currently offer a new method incorporated during the UltraLASIK procedure to help this age group of patients to decrease their dependency on reading glasses. This method is called Adjusted-Q treatment and it has a high success rate in suitable patients.

What about the long-term, will my vision change?

The first LASIK procedure was performed in 1989. Further developments took place in the early 1990â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and over 25 million eyes have had treatment without any long-term negative consequences. The procedure has received approval as a safe option by the stringent Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the USA. However, they advise that consumers should search for a surgeon with expertise in the cornea and research the technology well. IntraLASE has also received FDA approval (www.fda.gov/ cdrh/lasik). Any changes that take place following treatment usually occur in the first 6-12 weeks. From my experience, having specialised knowledge of corneal diseases and having performed LASIK for over 15 years, I believe that patients who are appropriately selected, examined and treated by an experienced and well-trained corneal surgeon within the correct guidelines, will not experience any long-term detrimental effect. By adopting stringent guidelines on equipment and training. risk is minimized and good outcomes are consistent. This month is the first anniversary of the Sharif Eye Center branch at DHCC (sharifeyecenter.com).

What is HAYATI? HAYATI Healthcare Financingâ&#x201E;˘ is the first ever dedicated Patient Financing company in the UAE. We provide loans for any medical treatment you need, including cosmetic & plastic surgeries, dental care & orthodontics, fertility treatments and more. ( HAYATI allows you to pay convenient and affordable repayments over time, instead of paying 'up-front' cash payments prior to treatment. ( HAYATI helps you start medical and dental treatments immediately. ( HAYATI delivers more affordable terms than any credit card. ( HAYATI provides a network of independent clinics. ( HAYATI offers a simple online application process.

Apply online now! www.hayatihealthcare.com Contact us at 800 - HAYATI (429 284) or info@hayatihealthcare.com for details.

The Basics One of the first questions youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need answered when setting up home in a new city is how the healthcare system works. Here are the facts youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to know...

Basics

Better Health Guide 2009-2010

1. I’ve just arrived in Dubai how does healthcare work here? Healthcare is a chargeable service in the UAE, so whether you’re having a routine check up or undergoing surgery, it’ll cost you money. The healthcare is made up of government and private providers, who operate clinics and hospitals. The majority of expats in Dubai use the private system for their routine care, but can also use the government sector if they have a ’health card’. You’ll get this card once you’ve been cleared for a residency visa. All in all, the level of healthcare in Dubai is very good and getting stronger each year. Talented medical specialists from across the world practice here and some of the biggest names in healthcare now have branches in Dubai. Dr. Melanie Orchard

2. Are hospitals in Dubai ranked? No, as of yet none of the hospitals in Dubai are officially ranked according size, quality of care, safety standards or outcomes. Dr. Pietie Loubser, EHL Management Services

Who do I call in a medical emergency?

To contact the ambulance service, which is mainly used for accidents on the road, the numbers to call are 999 or 998. If you need to get to hospital swiftly and don’t want to drive or take a taxi, you can call one of the big hospitals who operate their own ambulances – there’s Welcare in Garhoud (04 282 7788), Al Wasl Hospital (04 324 1111) and American Hospital (04 336 7777) in Oud Metha and Cedars in Jebel Ali (04 881 8816). Dr Melanie Orchard 8

4. What is the difference between a hospital and a clinic? You may find that the setup of the various health care centres a little different to what you’re used to in your home country. In the place of dedicated GPs practices, you’ll find clinics, some of which cover general family medicine, and some of which are dedicated to one area. These clinics can be exceptionally sophisticated and advanced and can even carry out procedures – you won’t necessarily have to go to a hospital for an operation. The hospitals are your first port of call in an emergency, and you may be referred to one for specialist treatment after visiting a general medical practitioner in a clinic. However, unlike in some countries, it’s not the case that you can visit any clinic or hospital you like – you’ll need to check which places are covered by your insurance provider, as treatment in places outside this list will not be covered by your insurance. Dr Melanie Orchard

Is it advisable to have particular inoculations to live here? You don’t require particular inoculations for Dubai although as with everywhere in the world you should make sure your core inoculations, including tetanus, are up to date. Check in with a doctor at a family medical clinic to make sure you’ve had everything you need. If you have children with you in Dubai and you plan to send them to school here, then you’ll need to make sure to speak to the school nurse before they start their schooling as they might have certain health guidelines for your children to follow. Another thing to bear in mind is that the BCG vaccine against tuberculosis is administered to babies in Dubai - in some places, including the UK, this is administered much later - so you need to make sure they don’t miss out on this particular innoculation. Dr. Melanie Orchard

6. Do doctors do call-outs to your home? It is possible to have a doctor visit you at home, though they’ll first have to ascertain that you are unable to visit them at their clinic or hospital. This policy is dependent on the clinic – some may not offer callouts at all – and you’ll find that there may be a call-out fee to pay, with call-outs at night incurring a surcharge. As such, if you can make it out of your home it may be better to do so.

Do doctors need certain qualifications to practice here – is there a governing body?

There are many different medical regulatory bodies in the UAE. In a free zone such as Dubai HealthCare City (DHCC) only doctors that qualified and are experienced in certain countries are accepted to work there. The free zone has their own regulating body (Center for Planning and Quality) that issues a professional license and determines which doctors can practice in DHCC. The City Hospital is currently the only multi-disciplinary hospital in DHCC. Outside the free zone, doctors are licensed by the Dubai Health Authority and they have their own set of requirements and criteria in terms of qualifications and experience. There is currently a huge initiative underway to ensure that all the doctors that practice in Dubai comply with same stringent quality criteria. The intention is to standardise the level of care provided in the interest of patient safety. Dr. Pietie Loubser, EHL Management Services

Dr. Melanie Orchard 9

Basics

Better Health Guide 2009-2010

10 Where is my nearest hospital?

9 17

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Al Baraha Hospital Al Maktoum Hospital Al Rafa Hospital Al Wasl Hospital American Hospital Belhoul European Hospital Belhoul Speciality Hospital Canadian Specialist Hospital Cedars Jebel Ali International Hospital 10. City Hospital

11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21.

Downtown General Hospital Dubai Hospital Emirates Hospital Gulf Speciality Hospital International Modern Hospital Iranian Hospital Jebel Ali Hospital Medcare Hospital Rashid Hospital Welcare Hospital Zulekha Hospital

11 13

14 5

10 4

Insurance With so many providers in the market place and so many policies on offer, the ins and outs of medical insurance can be difficult to understand. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve pulled together all you need to know to get yourself covered...

Insurance

Better Health Guide 2009-2010

How does medical insurance work?

Medical insurance exists to help you meet the cost of medical care in Dubai, and it’s important to have it given the significant costs you could incur if you don’t. The cost of insurance varies with the level of cover offered. And though your employer should pay for and provide you with a level of medical insurance that should at least cover the basics – doctor’s appointments, routine check-ups etc – you could choose to take out personal cover and pay for a policy that suits you. For instance, if you’re thinking of trying for a baby you should perhaps buy a policy that includes maternity cover, as the costs without it can be considerable. Similarly, a trip to the dentist can also prove costly, you may want to opt for a policy that includes dental cover. However, no single policy covers everything – that includes even the most comprehensive package available – so it’s important to ask your insurance provider what you’ll have to pay and when.

10. Are all illnesses and conditions covered? No, they’re not. It’s simply a case of you choosing a bespoke policy. If your medical insurance is provided for you by your employer but you’d like a fuller range of cover – e.g. the inclusion of dental cover – you can ask your employer to arrange this with the insurer, though of course you’ll have to meet the increased cost. You’ll find that lots of conditions and illnesses, even something like allergies, are excluded from the policies offered, but you can add them to your policy by paying a premium. It’s a bit like choosing from a menu to decide what best suits your needs. The premiums can be expensive and in some cases you may never have any use for what you’ve paid extra for. For instance, you may pay for full maternity cover but not manage to get pregnant during the period of cover. 14

But if you think there’s a chance you will utilise the cover, it could be well worth the additional investment. If you’re buying medical insurance independently of your employer, make it your mission to speak to as many providers as possible to see what they offer, as it can vary significantly.

11. What do I do if my insurance doesn’t cover my treatment? When insurance policies do not cover the cost of treatment and you don’t want to pour your life savings into healthcare, you could consider patient financing, an innovative model in the region, which provides you with medical loans for treatments such as dentistry, LASIK eye surgery and maternity care. By using this facility you can pay convenient and affordable repayments over time, instead of paying ‘up-front’ cash prior to treatment. Hayati Healthcare (hayatihealthcare.com) is one company which specialises in this financing. Dr. Michael Matly, Hayati Healthcare

12.

I’ve heard people talk about Takaful health insurance – what is it?

13.

Can I be insured if I’m already ill?

It’s not guaranteed that you will be able to secure health insurance cover if you are already ill, but it is possible. It will involve the insurance company liaising with the doctors who are treating you and making a judgement on whether they can cover you and the size of the premiums you will have to pay. The details of your illness will be covered during the checking procedure when you first apply for your insurance, when in-depth questions will be asked about your medical history, current health and lifestyle choices (smoking, exercise levels etc.) You must make sure to give full and frank answers when giving such information – if you don’t disclose any current or past illnesses then you may not be covered for claims in the future.

It’s a brand of insurance based on Islamic legal principles, making it compliant with Shari’a. It’s not aimed at making profits but at spreading risk and supporting people who are unfortunate enough to fall ill. The investments made by the takaful insurance companies are all shariacompliant, and the premiums are seen as donations. Some major takaful insurers include Noor Takaful (04 426 8783 / noortakaful.com), Sun Insurance (04 335 5399 / sunins.ae), Oman Insurance Company (04 233 7777 / oicem.com) and Dubai Islamic Insurance (04 319 3111 / aman.ae).

Dental

There are hundreds of dental practices in Dubai but are they any good and how sophisticated is their level of care? We talk to the experts to answer these and other important questions...

Dental

Better Health Guide 2009-2010

14. I think my child needs braces: what are the key considerations and what is the process for getting them fitted? The earlier you take your child to see an orthodontist the better – if you start them from the age of six then problems can be picked up and treated swiftly, before they develop further. If treatment takes place in ‘Phase 1’ – i.e. before the age of eleven, when teeth are still coming through, it may be simpler than in Phase II, when all teeth have come through. When it comes to working out whether your child needs braces, there are some classic signs you should be watching out for. The first is overly protruding or bucked teeth, or upper teeth which tuck in behind lower teeth. The second is ‘open bite’ - get your child to bite their teeth together and if they don’t touch together then they may need braces. Gaps or over-crowded teeth, problems with chewing and thumb-sucking beyond the age of seven are also key indicators. The braces will remain from between 12 and 24 months on average, with regular check-ups and adjustments along the way. You’ll also need to make sure your child keeps up proper hygiene routines as well. Dr. Lana Dalbah, Boston University Dental Health Center Dubai

15. How advanced is

the technology and levels of dental care in Dubai? It’s extremely advanced – the city has attracted some exceptionally talented dentists and each year sees a new wave of advanced international institutes and clinics arrive in the city. There are a glut of good dentists dotted around the city, and the advent of Dubai HealthCare City has brought in some highly advanced and specialised new options, particularly in the arena of cosmetic dentistry. One thing to bear in mind, though, is that many company health plans don’t make great provision for dental procedures. If you opt to have elective or complicated treatments it may cost a lot, so speak to your insurer. Dr. Melanie Orchard 18

16.

Do dentists have to have certain qualifications to practice in Dubai? Dentistry in Dubai is regulated by the Ministry of Health and if you look at somewhere like Dubai HealthCare City then the criteria to practice there is particularly stringent. It currently has 14 licensed dental facilities and each one has had to meet the following requirements: completion of five years of education in a college or university, of which at least four years are devoted to formal dental education; completion of at least one year of supervised clinical training sponsored by an approved dental school prior to obtaining the dental degree; completion of all the formal requirements for the degree corresponding to Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD), Doctor of Dental Surgery/Science (DDS), Bachelor of Dental Surgery/Science (BDS), or its equivalent in an approved dental school and being in receipt of the stated degree; and having a current and valid license to practice dentistry in one of the countries on the DHCC list of approved countries for dentists.When it comes to choosing a dentist the most important things to check is that they have the required credentials. And on a personal level, that it’s someone you are comfortable with. Dr Ayesha Abdullah, Senior Vice President, Dubai Healthcare City.

17.

What options are there for cosmetic dentistry procedures in the UAE?

There’s a huge assortment of different procedures which can be employed to improve the appearance of your teeth. One of the most popular is tooth whitening, which uses either lasers or a combination of bleaching gel and targeted lighting to improve your tooth colour. Then there are laminate veneers, made of porcelain and attached with a bonding agent – these can give an extremely powerful and good-looking effect. If you have large, unsightly cavities, your orthodontist may recommend inlays or onlays, which will be created with the aid of computer design – these can give a great result. Then there are the classic crowns and bridges, made from ultra-strong Zirconia, and shaped to perfectly fit your mouth. And there are also the tooth-coloured fillings, made from a composite resin – less durable than porcelain but very good nonetheless. Finally, one sophisticated procedure which can be excellent is dental implants, which are incorporated into the jawbone and which are indistinguishable from natural teeth.

Dr. Steven Morgano, Boston University Dental Health Centre Dubai

To Trust, or not to Trust Placing your assets into trust can be a dilemma. It will deliver substantial advantages to your successors, but means losing control of your assets. Fortunately there is an answer – A Private Trust Company (PTC) allows family members to participate in decisions relating to assets controlled by a trust. So you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Contact Sovereign about a PTC and let us help you stay in the present and prepare for the future. Want to find out more? Contact John Hanafin Telephone +971 4 397 6552 Email dubai@SovereignGroup.com Visit www.SovereignGroup.com Sovereign Corporate Services celebrating 10 years in Dubai The Sovereign Group - Bahamas, British Virgin Islands, China, Cyprus, Denmark, Dubai, Gibraltar, Hong Kong, Isle of Man, Malta, Mauritius, The Netherlands, Netherlands Antilles, Portugal, Seychelles, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, Turks & Caicos Islands, United Kingdom and Uruguay.

Intelligent Offshore Planning since 1987

Instant appointments Consultation, investigations & procedure “same day” 10 minutes and you’re done

It’s that simple at Magrabi Eye Hospital – outpatient surgery center LASIK – refractive procedures DHCC, Al Razi Bldg, Block E, 2nd Floor Tel: +971 (4) 4370606 Fax: +971 (4) 4290685

Optical

The importance of taking care of your eyes cannot be overstated. What can you do to protect them and what are your options if you want to enhance your vision? Our experts tell all...

Optical

18.

Better Health Guide 2009-2010

I am considering laser eye surgery. Where can I have this done and is it safe?

There are a wide range of places you can have this done in Dubai (check the Directory section to get an idea). It is a relatively safe procedure and if any complications do occur, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very rare for them to cause permanent, significant vision loss. Many can be resolved through re-treatment or enhancements of the eye. The most important thing is choosing your surgeon very carefully. Ask for recommendations and do your research â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ensure

you are thoroughly screened and examined. A reputable centre will tell you outright if you are not a suitable candidate for LASIK. Even if you do not qualify for LASIK, you might still be able to undergo vision correction through other means such as PRK or Phakic IOLs. If you do decide to undergo LASIK, a responsible eye surgeon will work closely with you to resolve problems if they do develop. LASIK has grown in popularity in recent years due to increased public confidence as a result of millions of successful procedures all around the world. With increasingly sophisticated technology used for the procedure, most LASIK outcomes these days are very favourable. Experienced LASIK surgeons now report that serious complication rates can be held well below one per cent, but this is reliant upon very careful selection of candidates. Dr Tarek Ibrahim, Magrabi Hospital

19. Does LASIK last forever? In principle, what is corrected by refractive surgery (LASIK) never comes back; however we cannot stop the effects of ageing: normal progression, presbyopia, and diseases of ageing. So whether it lasts forever cannot, unfortunately, be guaranteed. Dr. Khaled Sharif, Sharif Eye Centre

20. How advanced is the level of eye care in Dubai? The level of eye care in Dubai is very advanced, particularly since the launch of Dubai HealthCare City where there are five or six eye centres that can be considered as very high-tech in eye care. Three of them also have highly qualified eye doctors. DHCC is governed by very strict quality control rules so you can be assured that good standards are upheld. Dr. Khaled Sharif, Sharif Eye Centre 22

21. How often should I buy new sunglasses? To answer this question, we should consider that the choice of sunglasses has to meet with three key factors: firstly, and most importantly, they must have UV protection. UV is very dangerous to the eye and may cause eye inflammation, cataracts and more complicated diseases. Secondly, the sunglasses should fit properly and comfortably on the face. Finally, they should look good: this point varies a lot depending on each patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aesthetic, cosmetic and trend/fashion awareness. High-end sunglasses which keep the same excellent UV protection have non-allergenic materials and keep their initial fit when properly used. Lower-end sunglasses lose these features after a certain period and might harm the skin due to low-quality material. Technically speaking, once we ensure a full UV lens protection, we can keep the same sunglasses as long as we like. What actually happens, though, is that fashion changes and. consumers want to change mostly for that reason. To verify that your lenses are UV protected, you can visit any Magrabi Optical branch in Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain or Ras El Khaimah. Our experts will help you select the best choice for your needs. Sami G Abi-Aad, Magrabi Retail

22.

How important is it to get my eyes tested regularly, and where can I go to get a test carried out? Adults should make sure to get their eyes tested at least every two years â&#x20AC;&#x201C; children will require more regular tests than this as will people who have close relatives who have glaucoma. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to make sure your prescription is up to date, in order to avoid straining or damaging your eyes, and there are many opticians who can help you with this. You can also get your eyes tested in clinics and hospitals including Magrabi (see the Opthalmology section in the Directory for suggestions). Dr. Wael Abdel Salam, Magrabi Hospital & Centers

Surgery Financing Available

Kids

Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re trying for a baby, about to give birth or enjoying the first few years of your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life, our experts will talk you through the most common concerns...

Kids

23.

Better Health Guide 2009-2010

Can spouses stay overnight in hospital with the mother?

They can, but it depends on whether the hospital is privately or government-owned and whether there is room. If the mother gives birth at a government hospital then spouses/ family members/friends are not encouraged to stay overnight even if you have a private room, so check what the arrangements are in advance. However, if the hospital is privately-owned the mother can usually request a private room, then pay an additional sum – starting from around Dhs125 per day – to have someone share that room. The guest will also need to pay a flat fee per day for any meals ordered during their stay. The rooms on offer range in size and price, from a standard single room right up to a royal suite, with the standard room being much like a budget hotel room, with a single bed for the mother and a pull-down/sofa bed for her guest. It’s normally the case following a routine birth

that a mother and her spouse can stay for 2 nights, and for 4 nights following a c-section. This may differ from hospital to hospital so it is a good idea to find out what is offered and also what is covered by your insurance company. In the event of the maternity unit being busy and all private rooms in use - which can quite often be the case the mother may be asked to share a 4/6 bedded ward and in this case a guest cannot stay with you. Elizabeth Bain, Dubai Doulas

24. Are there first aid courses I can send my nanny on? Yes, there are a fair few of them. Either one of the following clinics would be good place to go for more information: Cedars Jebel Ali (04 881 4000), Cooper Health Clinic (04 348 6344), Family First Aid Training (050 953 5075) or Jumeirah Prime Medical Centre (04 349 4545). You should also think about making up a child-specific fist aid kit. Have a look at http://www.dubaikidz.biz/medical.html#medical8 for details of how to do this. Elizabeth Bain, Dubai Doulas

25. Is there ante or postnatal support available in Dubai? Yes, there’s an excellent spread of different options on offer. When it comes to both ante and postnatal education, you can get classes at the French Medical Centre with Elizabeth Driver (04 349 5020) or at Health Bay Polyclinic with Midwife Dru Campbell (04 348 7140) or with birth doulas Nicola and Elizabeth at Dubai Doulas (dubaidoulas.com). The American Hospital offers classes over a two month period, and Australian Family Care (04 369 4433) has ‘Parent Craft Classes’. There is a breastfeeding support group at Al Wasl Hospital on the last Sunday over every month and a lactation consultant at Health Bay Polyclinic (04 348 7140). One thing to bear in mind when taking advice from anyone on breastfeeding is that you need to make sure they have a proper qualification in the subject. Elizabeth Bain, Dubai Doulas 26

26. Are there any drop-in clinics in Dubai where I can go to ask minor health questions about my children? No such place exists, but whether your concern is more that you’ll be wasting the time of the doctor by asking what you consider to me minor questions, or one of lack of time. then you really shouldn’t worry. Many practices have very knowledgeable nursing staff who are happy to answer questions on all manner of topics, from immunisations through to minor ailments. And in the event that you’re too busy to make an appointment, the nurses or doctor may well answer such questions over the telephone. In addition, somewhere like the Infinity Health Clinic (04 394 8994) has its own sub-clinics where parents can go and ask questions of a baby nurse. There’s also a clinic for tweens and teens only, in case they have health questions which they don’t want to ask in your presence. Helen Gillespie, Health Visitor

Heriot-Watt University Dubai Block 2, Dubai Academic City 04 361 6999 hw.ac.uk/dubai

Curriculum British Number of students 596

27.

Can you have a water birth or home birth in Dubai? If so, how do you arrange this?

At present there are no maternity units in Dubai offering water births. This is seen by some as a shame, as water has been shown by some research to be of benefit to the mother and baby during labour. Most hospitals have showers but no baths, which means that women can not use a bath to submerge in during labour. Likewise, home births, even those facilitied by experienced community midwives, are currently not allowed in Dubai, although if the labour is at such an advanced stage that the mother can’t make it to the hospital, then of course she’ll be able to give birth at home. Elizabeth Bain, Dubai Doulas

Overview Heriot-Watt University was the first overseas university to set up in Dubai International Academic City, offering a top quality British education to students and executives from around the Gulf and further afield. The eighth oldest higher education institution in the UK (it was founded in Edinburgh over 180 years ago) Heriot-Watt was invited to Dubai in recognition of its global reputation and international reach in the fields of engineering and management. 27

Kids

Better Health Guide 2009-2010

28. What questions should I ask of a paediatrician before choosing who to go with? First and foremost you’ll want to know what qualifications they have and the services they provide. Once you’re happy with that, you’ll want to know that they will listen to your concerns and the way you want to do things. A good paediatrician will guide and advise you on how to achieve your goals, not tell you how you should be doing things, unless, of course, you wish for them to do so. They should be open minded and knowledgeable of new research, but most of all they need to instill confidence and a sense of trust in you. It’s also worth checking whether you can make appointments with the clinic’s nurse for what are termed ‘well-baby check-ups’, as these can be particularly useful for new mothers with minor concerns. Of course, you may feel that your trusted family doctor can offer the same advice as a paediatrician, so speak to them first. Dr. Melanie Orchard

29. Should I get my kids tested for allergies as a matter of course? What should they be tested for? Only children who have symptoms or allergic rashes should be tested. Allergy testing involves having a skin or blood test to find out what substance, or allergen, may trigger an allergic response in a person. These tests are the most useful for diagnosing dust mite allergies, pollen allergies, food allergies, drug allergies etc. Dr. Rita Kovesdi, Health Bay Polyclinic

30.

I am looking to have a baby - is there anything I can do to improve my chances?

Yes, absolutely – both partners can make key changes in their lifestyle to help maximise the chances of conceiving. Start by getting a health check for both of you at your family medical clinic, to make sure you are both in the best possible shape. This will also give your doctor an opportunity to talk to you both about your personal and family medical histories – which may occasionally make him or her decide to recommend some genetic counselling to make you aware of any risks – and to see whether any of the medications you are taking are likely to hinder your chances of getting pregnant. The next step is to take a look at your lifestyle – one key step is to stop smoking, as it can have a negative affect on your chances on conceiving, as well as having longer term health consequences. Similarly, if you drink alcohol, you should consider cutting down or even cutting it out altogether. Take a look at your 28

diet and weight too – being either under or overweight can reduce your fertility – visiting a dietician could help you get to your optimum weight, and a sensible, regular exercise regime is important too. You should also look at reducing the amount of caffeine you take in, diminishing stress levels where possible, and taking both multivitamins and folic acid, if your doctor recommends it. Elizabeth Bain, Dubai Doulas

Better Health Guide Advertisement feature 2009-2010

Lifestyle

Need to know...

Physiocare

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Physiocare have a high level of experience in treating and rehabilitating sports injuries.

They offer courses of non-invasive anti-ageing facial exercises, which rejuvenate the underlying muscles of your face: try a few sessions and you’ll notice the difference.

Physiocare is licensed by the Center of Healthcare Planning and Quality. Contact the centre on 04 429 8560 / 050 920 0838 or visit www.physiocare.ae or Dubai Healthcare City, Al Razi Bldg No. 64, Block B, Suite 2027. 39

Specialist Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve dug deeper to unearth some of the more specific health issues affecting Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residents and lined up a team of industry experts to tackle these concerns...

Specialist

Better Health Guide 2009-2010

31. How important is exercise in maintaining a healthy level of cholesterol? Physical exercise is one of several key factors that determine a person’s cholesterol level. Diet, weight and genetic inheritance are the other things to consider. But physical exercise is particulary important, as not only does it help lower cholesterol by itself, but it also helps you lose weight, so it keeps one of the other key factors for high cholesterol in check. Research has shown that it’s not only the traditional forms of aerobic exercise - jogging, swimming, rowing etc - that help lower cholesterol levels but other types of exercise, too. The likes of walking - which you can even do inside one of Dubai’s many malls when it’s too hot to take a stroll outside - and yoga are viable options if you don’t fancy the idea of sweating it out in the gym. Try to take physical exercise at least three times a week. Dr. Melanie Orchard

33. Where can I go for advice on alternative medicine? Is this field regulated in any way? There are several places offering alternative medicine and all of them are regulated by the Ministry of Health. Such places include the Dubai Herbal & Treatment Centre (04 335 1200), which offers a wealth of complementary remedies and allopathic treatments. Meanwhile, Mind Body Dynamixs (04 338 5251) practices alternative approaches to treating emotional issues. You’ll also find a good number of such clinics at Dubai HealthCare City (04 324 5555). Dr. Melanie Orchard 32

32. Is there anywhere I can go for a health MOT? Most of the hospitals in Dubai offer a wide variety of health packages specifically designed to cover different aspects of medical fitness or to help in the early detection of certain ailments.The purpose of a preventive care medical examination is to detect common conditions of which you are unaware and which may have a negative influence on your health in the future. Examples of such conditions are high blood pressure, obesity and elevated cholesterol. Early detection of these conditions will facilitate the implementation of preventive measures and, which may increase the likelihood of a cure or good control and prevent complications later in life. It would be advisable to check your insurance cover before booking an appointment for a health check-up as generally preventive health check-ups are not covered by health insurance companies. Dr. Pietie Loubser, EHL Management Services

34.

I want to have cosmetic surgery. How do I know if the clinic I choose is safe? The most important thing is the credibility of a surgeon. Remember there is a difference between a cosmetic surgeon and a plastic surgeon. In many regions a physician can undergo a certain period of training in one or more aspects of cosmetic surgery and practice as a cosmetic surgeon. They can be from any specialty, such as dermatology or gynaecology. A plastic surgeon, on the other hand, undergoes extensive training after medical schooling which includes training and qualification as a general surgeon followed by training and qualification in plastic surgery. They then undergo fellowship training in sub specialties, e.g. aesthetic surgery, hand surgery, microsurgery etc. They often develop a keen aesthetic sense to provide a harmonious result and have the experience to face any challenges in order to ensure safety. Dr Sanjay Parashar, Cocoona Centre for Aesthetic Transformation

35.

I have heard that diabetes is a big problem in the UAE. How can I prevent it and how can I be tested? You’re right about diabetes being a big problem – in fact the number of diabetes patients per capita in the UAE is the second highest in the world. There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 is usually diagnosed in childhood and means that the body can’t produce insulin. This only affects about five to ten per cent of diabetes sufferers. The far more common form is Type 2, which involves the body either not producing enough insulin, or the body’s cells ignoring the insulin. Several factors affect the likelihood of you contracting diabetes. These include those you can do nothing about – age, family history, nationality – but also your lifestyle. If you want to avoid getting diabetes, you need to make sure you’re exercising regularly (ideally for at least half an hour, five days a week) and also eating healthily. This means eating foods that are low in fat and generally trying to decrease your calorie intake (you can check how many calories you’re eating by looking at nutrition information on the food’s packaging, or looking it up online). The recommended daily calorie intake for women is 2,000, while it’s 2,500 for men. If you are worried you may have diabetes it’s possible to get a blood test which will tell you if you have diabetes or are borderline for it. It is very easy and all doctors should do it for you.

36. How common is arthritis and how can I prevent it? Osteoarthritis is a very common disease throughout the world. It affects mostly people aged over 50 but it can also be present in younger people. The word ‘osteoarthritis’ or ‘artrosis’ covers damage to the cartilage inside a joint. It can affect all joints but the most common ones are knees, hips, ankles and hands. The damage to the cartilage can be due to multiple causes. Firstly it can be due to aging: older people are at greater risk of wear and tear of the cartilage after an injury to a joint. This damage can occur following activities like football, rugby, skiing, running, tennis and many others, in which a small injury may lead to damage of the cartilage. Over the years osteoarthritis can further develop with additional symptoms coming out. Secondly there are inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, that can cause cartilage damage secondary to the disease. The symptoms can be very mild, ranging from some stiffness with some episodes of pain to incapacitating disability with continuous pain and limited range of motion. If the osteoarthritis is already present with symptoms one can consult an orthopedic surgeon for further treatment. Dr.Michael van Steijn, Dubai Bone & Joint Center

Dr. Melanie Orchard

37. Are there any clinics in Dubai that offer treatments for hair loss? To my knowledge there is no single place which provides comprehensive hair care. Comprehensive hair care means initial counselling and diagnostic procedure for hair loss, medical therapy to prevent hair loss or rejuvenate hair, cosmetic care for maintenance of hair health, surgical hair restoration for loss of hair and nonsurgical hair technology. However there are centres that provide individual treatments. Turn to the Directory for some suggestions. Dr Sanjay Parashar, Cocoona Centre for Aesthetic Transformation 33

Specialist

Better Health Guide 2009-2010

38.

Since coming to Dubai my skin has become incredibly, irritatingly dry and I suffer from frequent bouts of eczema. What can I do?

First of all, please don’t panic - you are not alone in your complaint. The Dubai weather and water as well as the constant air-conditioning can be very unforgiving on the skin and many of my clients have complained to me about excessive bouts of dry skin, scalp and generally a mild form of eczema. The good news is that there are lots of things to be done which can help, and with regular ongoing treatment, the effect of skin and scalp eczema/ dryness can be reduced greatly. First things first: your skin may be very sensitive and may require special care in order to resolve the problems. There are three key, basic steps that you

39. I’m worried I might have IBS - what are the symptoms and how do I get tested? The symptoms of IBS differ from case to case. Some patients have constipation while others have diarrhoea or belly-pain. The first step is to to exclude the possibility of inflammation of the bowel - the physician will ask for the symptoms and see whether an ultrasound for the gastrointestinal tract is advisable. Sometimes gastroscopy and colonoscopy is needed too. Dr. Ursula Rolef, Health Bay 34

can take to help reduce the severity of skin eczema. They are as follows... Step one is to cleanse your skin. I always recommend the use of soap-free emollient cleansers, which are also rich in vitamin E. These are generally wonderful for skin eczema and help to reduce scarring and soothe eczemaprone skin. Step two is to moisturise. The best way to remove the symptoms of very dry skin is to moisturise and to do so daily. I always recommend shea butter, a natural, vitamin-packed product that will stop itching and moisturise deep within your skin pores. Step three is to take a Dead Sea salt bath. Dead Sea salts have healing content and are wonderful for rejuvenating your skin. I recommend dissolving two cups of Dead Sea salt in nice warm water and letting your body soak in it for at least 20 minutes on a regular basis. You can carry out these treatments at home, but they are also available - including the Dead Sea facials and body treatments - at Biolite Skin Clinic. Mona Mirza, Biolite Skin Clinic

40.

What are the surgical options for weight loss?

Weight loss requires comprehensive care; it is a multidisciplinary problem. There are two basic aspects: assessment and management. Management can be medical and/or surgical. The surgical option is only one way of treating obesity and it works either by restricting food intake or interrupting the absorptive process. Bariatric surgeons specialise in such treatment. They will assess the patient and, based on the patient’’s medical history and BMI, provide different options that can range from a gastric balloon to gastric banding or gastric bypass surgery. Dr Sanjay Parashar, Cocoona Centre for Aesthetic Transformation

Lifestyle Life in Dubai can be stressful and demanding. So how does this affect your wellbeing and what other Dubai-specific lifestyle quirks impact on your health? Our experts have the answers...

Lifestyle

Better Health Guide 2009-2010

41. Is spending time in the sun harmful or can it be good for me? Spending time in the sun is definitely good but only in small doses. Sunlight is composed of Infrared, ultraviolet and visible rays of light. Ultraviolet rays are required to produce Vitamin D in the body, so if you don’t go out in sun, then you become deficient in Vitamin D. And deficiency of Vitamin D can cause rickets in children and osteomalacia and osteoporosis in adults. Osteoporosis causes the bones to become brittle and weak and increases the likelihood of bone fracture, especially in elderly bodies. Vitamin D deficiency is also linked to increased susceptibility to several chronic diseases. On the other hand, excessive sun exposure is well known for its links with skin cancer and can also age the skin prematurely. The overall message is that a little sun exposure has genuine health benefits but it is important to limit the duration and intensity of your exposure, with some studies recommending 15 minutes of unprotected sun exposure three times a week..

42. Are there any health risks associated with air conditioning? Yes. For while air conditioning has obvious perks, it can also have a negative impact on your general health. You may have noticed that people tend to get colds a lot in Dubai – this is because if one person has a cold, their germs are easily circulated through the recycled air. This is especially true of an office environment. The effects of arthritis can also be enhanced if the sufferer spends a lot of time in air conditioned environments. However, because of the soaring temperatures, air conditioning is a necessary evil in Dubai. But having your unit regularly serviced - aim for once every six months - will certainly help lessen the possibilty of ill effects. Dr. Melanie Orchard

Dr. Benizar Bux, Cleopatra’s Spa

43. I wear flip-flops every day – is this bad for me? Potentially, yes. Research has shown that wearing flip-flops actually changes the way you walk because they fail to sufficiently support your feet. The researchers noticed from observing people wearing flip-flops that the wearer would rotate their feet so that their ankles were angled inwards. This was most likely the result of their attempts to keep the shoes on. However, if you’re determined to wear flip-flop-style footwear you should invest in a pair of FitFlop sandals, This footwear has been engineered and shown to not only improve your posture but the muscle tone of your leg, too. Dr. Melanie Orchard

44.

I desperately need to de-stress. What are the best ways to do this?

There are several steps you can take to alleviate stress - simple things like listening to relaxing music, exercise and deep breathing will all help but for most people this isn’t enough. Massage is scientifically proven have tangible health benefits and to reduce stress. Research has shown that, through massage levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, are reduced while happy hormones serotonin and dopamine are boosted. Sitting long hours behind a desk or in a car will make your body feel drained of energy and tighten muscles in the neck, back and hips. This will not only cause back pain and inhibit movement but can also 38

lead to migraines, headaches and loss of sleep. On top of that built up anxiety from unfinished work, emotional worries and the unhealthy Dubai lifestyle all takes its toll on the body. Massage can work out the physical stress and undo the harm on your body caused by a sedentary lifestyle, also boosting your immune systems and enhancing alertness If your stress is caused by events in your personal life and you’ve done all you can to address the situation, there’s no harm in going to see your doctor as they should be well informed and able to advise on the best course of action going forward. Sara Jones, Chill Spa

45. Might my sedentary lifestyle affect my chances of getting cancer? Cancer is usually caused by a combination of reasons, some of which are unavoidable, like genetic inheritance and ethnicity, and others which you can change, including physical activity and exercise, tobacco use, dietary habits and alcohol intake. Therapeutic lifestyle modifications, such as adding an element of physical activity to your routine, will certainly go a long way in maintaining good health and preventing the early onset of diseases like cancer. Dr. Anees Fatima, The City Hospital

46.

How much water should I drink in a typical day here and should that level increase in the summer? A good way to estimate how much water you need in a day is to take your weight in pounds and divide that in half. That is the number of ounces of water per day that you need to drink. If you exercise you should drink an additional eight ounce glass of water for every 20 minutes that you exercise. In summer the intake should increase by another couple of servings a day. As an example, a person weighing 165lbs (75kg) will need approx 82 ounces a day. Since each ounce is 30ml, that equals to 2460ml. In summer, increasing by couple of servings means adding 16 ounces or 480ml. The total per day would be approximately 3 litres. Keep in mind that the above recommendations are for a healthy person with no medical issues. Also there are variations with gender, with women generally requiring marginally lower water intake than men. Keep in mind, too, that water intake does not mean only the plain water that we drink. It also includes juice, soda, tea, coffee and the water in fresh fruit and salads. Dr. Anees Fatima, The City Hospital

47.

I want to create a healthy eating plan – where do I start? There are quite a few nutrition consultants that you can visit in Dubai who can help you to create the perfect plan that fits in with your body type and preferences and which can help you to target specific health problems as well as raising your overall health levels. They can also help you with the hardest part – which is actually implementing your new plan and staying motivated with it. Having someone to check in with regularly both in person and over email - and report back to on goals achieved can be absolutely invaluable in making your healthy eating plan work for you in the long term, as it’s all too easy to give up. In terms of preparation for your first appointment, one thing that many nutritionists recommend is keeping a food diary for ten days or so in advance - tell the truth and you’ll get the best results - and making sure to take in all paperwork related to any medical conditions and any medication you may be taking. This will allow them to take a holistic view of your health and to combine this with your health goals and needs to produce a plan that’s perfectly tailored to you. See the Directory section for the main nutrition centres. Sara Jones, Chill Spa 39

Lifestyle

Better Health Guide 2009-2010

48. I want to get myself fit and trim. What’s the best way to set about it? We all know that exercise will help us get fit, lose weight and feel good about ourselves. But what you don’t always know is how to motivate yourself to start exercising. Self-motivation is by far the biggest block to getting fit. To kickstart a new fitness program and become self-motivated, you could book in for a consultation with a personal trainer in one of the city’s many fitness centres and health spas (see the Directory section for some options). Chill Fitness, for example, offers free consultations from one of the industry’s leading personal trainers who can find out exactly what type of exercise best suits you and develop a program to suit your needs. Sara Jones, Chill Spa

49. Is smoking shisha bad for your health? In a word, yes – in fact it’s worse than smoking cigarettes. An hour-long session involves inhaling up to 200 times more smoke than smoking a cigarette. It’s also smoked over coals – these add their own toxins, and the foil that burns during the process in turn combines with the coals to release carcinogenic fumes which you inhale. Add to this the fact that tobacco and nicotine – the nasties that make cigarettes so harmful – are still present and generally unmeasured, and you can see why experts are urging people to abandon shisha altogether. Dr. Melanie Orchard

50.

I don’t have time to get to the gym but would like to create an exercise room at home. What are the basics I require?

Obviously it depends on the space and budget that you have, but to do the basics you’ll need a piece of cardio equipment and something to build strength. Choose one from a treadmill, a cross trainer, exercise bike or rowing machine to enable you to do your cardio workout, and go for something like Select Tech dumbbells - which are adjustable so you only need one set - for your strength work. You’ll also need to buy an adjustable bench. If you can afford one, a Power Plate is a great investment. Not only does it give your body a fully rounded workout but you only need to use it for twenty minutes at a time, 3-4 times a week, for fantastic results. Finally, buy an exercise mat and Swiss ball so you can do core stability, abdominal & lower back work. Andy Dick, Al Kamda 40

Directory Hospitals

Al Baraha Hospital Naif Rd, Deira, Dubai 04 271 0000 albarahahospital.8m.com Al Maktoum Hospital Al Rigga, Deira, Dubai 04 222 1211 dohms.gov.ae Al Rafa Hospital Mankhool, Dubai 04 398 8799 alrafahospital.com Al Wasl Hospital Dubai 04 324 1111 dohms.gov.ae American Hospital Oud Metha Rd, Dubai 04 336 7777 mktg@ahdubai.com ahdubai.com Belhoul European Hospital Al Diyafah Rd, Satwa, Dubai 04 345 4000 / 7500 beh@belhouleuropean.com belhouleuropean.com Belhoul Speciality Hospital Al Khaleej Rd, Dubai 04 273 3333 bsh@belhoulspeciality.com belhoulspeciality.com Canadian Specialist Hospital Al Ittihad Road, Hor Al Anz, Dubai 04 707 2222 info@csh.ae / csh.ae Cedars Jebel Ali International Hospital Jebel Ali, Dubai 04 881 4000 / Emergency Hotline: 04 88 18816 cedars-jaih.com

City Hospital District 8, DHCC, Dubai 04 435 9999 800 THECITY (8432489) info@thecityhospital.com ehl.ae/thecityhospital Dubai Hospital Deira, Dubai 04 219 5000 DHWeb@dohms.gov.ae web.dohms.gov.ae/dh Emirates Hospital Jumeirah, Dubai 04 349 6666 info@emirateshospital.ae emirateshospital.ae Gulf Speciality Hospital Deira, Dubai 04 269 9717 numairy@eim.ae gshdubai.net International Modern Hospital Sk Rashid Rd, Dubai 04 398 8888 Info@imh.ae imh.ae Iranian Hospital Al Wasl Rd, Dubai 04 344 0250 / 404 6574 irhosp.ae Jebel Ali Hospital Jebel Ali, Dubai 04 884 5666 / 800 HOSPITAL info@jebelalihospital.com jebelalihospital.com Medcare Hospital Al Safa, Dubai 04 407 9100 / 101 medcarehospital.com Rashid Hospital Oud Metha Rd, Dubai 04 324 1111 dohms.gov.ae

Welcare Hospital Al Garhoud, Dubai 04 282 7788 info@ehl.ae ehl.ae/WH Zulekha Hospital Al Nadha, Dubai 04 267 8866 info@zulekhahospitals.com zulekhahospitals.com/ zhdubai

Insurance

Aetna Global Benefits LLC Oud Metha, Dubai 04 324 0040 sdepattenden@aetna.com goodhealthworldwide.com/ aetnoglobalbenefits.com Axa Insurance Gulf Wafi Residences, Umm Hurair 2, Oud Metha, Dubai 800 4845 axa-gulf.com Dubai Islamic Insurance & Reinsurance Company, (Aman) Oud Metha Road, Bur Dubai, Dubai 04 319 3111 info@aman.ae aman.ae Dubai National Insurance & Reinsurance P.S.C Opposite Deira City Center, Port Saeed, Deira, Dubai 04 295 6700 mails@dnirc.com dnirc.com ESDB-Expat Services GMBH (Dubai Br) Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai 04 341 5580 sopitz@expatservices.com expatservices.ae

Gargash Insurance Services LLC Umm Hurair Road, Bur Dubai, Dubai 04 337 9800 hodubai@ gargashinsurance.com gargashinsurance.com Holborn Assets Limited Bur Dubai, Dubai 04 336 9880 rubina@holbornassets.com holbornassets.com Neuron LLC Al Quoz, Dubai 04 306 2666 neuron.nu Nextcare - AGHS AI Siddique Rd, Deira, Dubai 04 605 6700 nextcare@emirates.net.ae nextcarehealth.com Nexus Insurance Brokers LLC Khalid Bin AI Walid Street, Dubai 04 397 7779 enquire@nexusadvise.com nexusadvice.com Salama Islamic Arab Insurance (PSC) Oud Metha Road, Dubai 04 337 4460 info@saIama.ae salama.ae Silver Globe Insurance Brokers LLC Zabeel Road, Dubai 04 337 3331 sgib.ae Sun Insurance Brokers Wafi City, Dubai 04 335 5399 sunins@eim.ae sunins.ae 43