Law to unify medical licensing throughout UAE

SHARJAH // A new law to unify the licensing of medical facilities throughout the country is being considered by the Ministry of Health.

Dr Amin Al Amiri, the undersecretary of the Ministry of Health and assistant undersecretary for medical practice and licensing, said the law would standardise all aspects of medical services in both the private and public sectors.

"The most important aspect is to have licensing procedures and medical facilities as well as services all in accordance with the set requirements by the Ministry of Health, Abu Dhabi and Dubai health authorities and international standards."

The law would also ensure there was a single format for hiring, and salaries for each job. According to medical staff, salaries vary between emirates, with people working at hospitals in Abu Dhabi often earning more than their counterparts in the Northern Emirates.

Dr Al Amiri also said new disciplinary rules and punishments would be set as part of the ruling, with clear procedures for patients to follow.

He said the ministry had already drafted the law and forwarded it to health authorities to discuss its contents before it could be approved.

There are 4,000 medical establishments throughout the country including hospitals, clinics as well as health, diagnostic and rehabilitation centres.

There are also 2,200 pharmacies and 11 pharmaceutical factories.

Dr Al Amiri was speaking at a meeting of the owners of private medical facilities at an open day held at the Sharjah Radisson SAS hotel yesterday.