Affordability, specialised services: How UAE's neighbourhood clinics ensure closer access to healthcare
As the UAE's population is growing significantly, the demand for accessible healthcare is rising. The country's population is expected to reach 13.7 million by 2040, according to data from the World Population Review. With more expats moving to the UAE, medical industry experts stress the need to expand neighbourhood clinics to provide specialised care closer to communities.
To meet this demand, several healthcare groups are investing in community-based clinics. Medcare, a subsidiary of DM Aster Healthcare, is set to launch 10 medical centres over the next two years with an investment of Dh60 million. These centres will offer comprehensive healthcare services under one roof, featuring integrated diagnostic facilities such as MRI, specialty clinics, and supporting sub-specialty services like physiotherapy.
Dr Shanila Laiju, group CEO of Medcare Hospitals and Medical Centres, highlighted the shift towards integrated community healthcare. 'The expansion of our medical centres demonstrates a clear trend toward integrating advanced diagnostics and specialist services within community clinics, driven by patient demand and technological advancements,' Dr Laiju said.
'Our introduction of MRI screenings has already seen significant demand, with over 500 MRIs completed in just two months,' Dr Laiju added.
Burjeel Holdings is also expanding its presence, with multiple clinics already operational across the UAE. 'We are planning to open more clinics to provide high-quality primary and specialised healthcare services,' said Dr Hala Abuzeid Ahmed Abuzeid, regional chief medical officer, Burjeel Holdings (Al Ain Region).
Healthcare industry experts said that neighbourhood clinics are improving accessibility while reducing pressure on hospitals. By handling outpatient cases, chronic disease management, and specialised diagnostics, these clinics enable hospitals to focus on complex and emergency cases.
'Clinics manage stable outpatient cases and chronic disease follow-ups, easing the burden on tertiary healthcare facilities and improving efficiency in the healthcare system,' said Dr Hala.
Similarly, S. SI. Quadrie, director of revenue management and business development at Prime Medical Centers, highlighted the importance of a well-distributed healthcare network. 'The Dubai Clinical Services Capacity Plan 2018-2030 (DCSCP) highlights the need for balanced geographical distribution of healthcare services to ensure high-quality care across the emirate,' said Quadrie. 'We are expanding our footprint across Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman to meet the growing demand for specialised outpatient care.'
Experts believe that increasing the number of neighbourhood clinics is essential to cater to growing healthcare needs, reduce hospital congestion, and provide timely medical interventions.
'By providing specialised services closer to where patients live and work, clinics can address health concerns early, ensuring faster diagnosis and treatment,' said Dr Hala.
Affordability, cost-effectiveness
Affordability remains a key factor in ensuring access to healthcare. Experts say neighbourhood clinics offer cost-effective solutions due to their lower operational costs compared to hospitals.
'Neighbourhood clinics operate with lower overhead costs compared to hospitals, making specialised services more affordable for residents,' said Quadrie. 'The UAE government's support for public-private partnerships (PPPs) ensures that these facilities continue to expand, offering high-quality healthcare while keeping costs manageable.'
However, some clinics maintain consistent pricing across their network. 'The cost of services at our medical centres remains the same as in our hospitals. We ensure that pricing is consistent across our network, maintaining premium healthcare standards without compromising affordability,' said Dr Laiju.
Insurance coverage at neighbourhood clinics
Experts mentioned that insurance providers are increasingly covering outpatient diagnostics and specialised services at neighbourhood clinics, making them a cost-efficient option for both patients and insurers. 'With 98 per cent of Dubai's population covered by health insurance, insurers encourage coverage for services like MRI, physiotherapy, and specialist consultations,' said Quadrie.
'Insurance coverage remains the same across our network, allowing patients to access specialised services at neighbourhood clinics with the same benefits,' added Dr Laiju.
Healthcare experts predict that neighbourhood clinics will soon be fully equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and specialist consultations. 'The future of primary healthcare is shifting towards greater accessibility, with neighbourhood clinics becoming well-equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and specialist consultations,' said Dr Hala.
Additionally, new technologies and innovative treatment solutions will allow clinics to offer an expanded range of specialised services. 'With AI-driven diagnostics, telemedicine, and innovative treatment solutions, clinics will soon offer a broader range of specialised services, reducing dependency on hospitals,' said Quadrie.
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