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Move to permit alternative medical therapies in Dubai

DUBAI — Patients in the emirate will soon be allowed the use of alternative medicine as a mode of treatment, including use of all types of medications that fall under the same genre.

Till now, alternative medicine therapists, especially in the private sector, are not allowed to practice unless they meet certain criteria, including qualifications and experience stipulated by higher health authorities.

According to an agreement signed recently between the Department of Health and Medical Services (Dohms) and Dubai Health Care City (DHCC), policies and rules governing the practice of alternative medicine will be hammered out on a medical and scientific basis.

As per the agreement, Dohms and DHCC will chalk out an in-depth study to lay down international health standards in alternative medicine, which will also include all types of medications and treatments.

Khalid Al Shaikh Mubarak, Assistant Director-General of Dohms for Finance and Administration said that the project is the first of its kind in the Middle East.

“The Dohms is, in a way, reviving an earlier rule whereby patients had the right to choose alternative medicine as a method of getting treatment,” he explained. He said that the project also contributes in promoting health tourism. “The project is unique because it diversifies the ways of treatment,” he added. Dr Mohditha Al Hashimi, Deputy Director of DHCC, said: “The patient’s rights remain protected due to this project. Besides, they will also get the optimal medical treatment with accredited standards of health treatment.”