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Medical malpractice insurance criticised

DUBAI — The Ministry of Health (MoH) may have to dish out up to Dh1 million, or more, in insurance claims if its medical representatives are held responsible for any malpractice resulting in permanent disability or death of a patient.

Khaleej Times has learnt that since MoH signed an agreement with the Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company (Adnic) two years ago, 10 cases of medical negligence have been filed against MoH doctors and are still pending in the court.

During a symposium on Medical Malpractice Insurance, organised jointly by MoH and Adnic at the Al Bustan Rotana yesterday, senior medical staff expressed their dissatisfaction with the existing policy. The theme for the symposium was "The Professional Indemnity Insurance Policy for Doctors and Technicians".

“We are not very clear about the purpose of the existing policy, and besides it does not cover all departments effectively,” said Dr Saleha bin Tibin, Director of Al Amal Hospital. “My concern is mainly about mental disorders which are not clearly defined in the policy,” she said.

Meanwhile, other doctors said that the policy did not cover diseases such as HIV, Hepatitis, political situation (war), dental, obesity and weight reduction fields, and even if the limit fixed by the MoH is crossed, then the doctor is held responsible.

“There is an urgent need for specific guidelines and protocols regarding this insurance policy because all those covered by it are still not fully aware of their rights,” said Dr Mustafa Sayed Al Hashmi, Director-General, Al Wasl Hospital and Director Primary Health Centres, MoH.

To report a case of negligence against a doctor, a patient or his family has to report to the hospital within 48 hours which in turn will lodge a complaint with the MoH Department of Curative Medicine. The case will be investigated and settled in court. And in case a complainant wins, the insurance company pays for the doctor on behalf of the MoH.