Dubai: 200 workers get free health check-ups at mobile clinic

Over 200 blue-collar workers underwent free health screening at a mobile clinic on Sunday.

The 'Wellness on Wheels' had arrived at Naffco Camp 9 in Dubai Investment Park (DIP) 2 as part of a special educational project by a Dubai-based university.

Students of Executive MBA programme from Georgetown University collaborated with various stakeholders from the healthcare sector for the educational module called 'Ethics Module'.

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Timely diagnosis of influenza

Benefiting from this on-ground, practical project was a blue-collar worker, Mohammed Imran, who has been working in Dubai for the last six years.

Speaking to Khaleej Times, he said, “I have had fever since yesterday. I work at the Jebel Ali firefighting department. I was feeling a bit weak and my body temperature has been high. So, this initiative proved to be quite timely for me. The doctor here tested my blood sugar and enquired if I had any breathing issues. I have been prescribed some medicines.”

Dr Daiealsham from Dubai Health, one of the eight attending doctors at the mobile clinic, said that in addition to monitoring vital signs, they were also concentrating on identifying symptoms of heat injuries and illnesses.

“We have been screening the workers mostly for diabetes and hypertension, but I also ask them about any medical concerns that they may have and if they want it addressed. One patient had fever and it seemed like viral influenza. I have asked for any alarming signs where he might need any medical management like antibiotics. However, he seemed fine and his body temperature was lowering as well.”

Identifying symptoms for heat injuries, other illnesses

Sanjay Chauhan, a driver at Naffco, said that while such campaigns took place in the past, there is a heightened emphasis on workers' health now, particularly in the summer months.

“Such health check-ups have happened before but this looked different. I see a renewed focus on health and I am really glad. Initially, people were a bit skeptical; some thought it was a blood donation camp. I first clarified things and then participated,” said the Indian expat who has been here for the past 22 years.

“It’s difficult for everyone, particularly in the summer months. Therefore, such a drive is extremely important, especially because it helps spread awareness and if somebody is detected with a condition, it can be addressed at an early stage.”

Medical professionals and volunteers conducted health assessments, checking vital signs, and hydration levels, and screening for heat-related illnesses.

Essential supplements such as electrolytes, vitamins and hydration packs, provided by Life Pharmacy, were distributed to workers.

Hailing the move

While waiting for his turn, Shubash Selvaraj, who works at the Naffo factory, said he had been in the UAE for only four months. He praised the move and expressed his admiration for what the country has to offer.

“It’s a commendable initiative. I haven’t had any recent tests; the last ones I did were in India. In rural villages there, some private companies organise camps for regular checkups. So, I truly appreciate this initiative for expats like us. There are many of us here, often moving between different places. Regular checkups will help detect any hidden ailments in our bodies. Typically, people like us don’t visit private hospitals for checkups, so this is a great opportunity.”

Experiential learning project

Top working professionals from the government and private sectors who have enrolled in this Executive MBA programme explained they have designed the experiential learning project on their own.