Latest news with #Medcare
Web Release
2 days ago
- Health
- Web Release
Dubai emerges as a regional hub for gene therapy breakthroughs: Medcare leads the way in transforming lives of children with rare genetic diseases
Dubai is rapidly establishing itself as a hub for cutting-edge gene therapy, with Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital Al Qusais being at the forefront of treating rare genetic disorders such as Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). With the hospital's proximity to the Dubai International Airport, a growing number of patients from Turkey, and other countries in the region and beyond are traveling to Dubai for life changing treatments. Medcare has been redefining excellence in the field of paediatric neurology and gene-based therapies, pioneering a new era of hope and healing for families affected by such debilitating conditions. Turkish families are increasingly turning to Medcare for SMA treatments, with incidence rates in Turkey significantly higher than the global average. The hospital's state-of-the-art facilities, international medical expertise, and holistic treatment model position it as a Centre of Excellence for gene disorders, not just in the UAE but across the MENA and the Asia-Pacific regions. SMA, a rare neurodegenerative condition, causes progressive muscle weakness and often proves fatal in infancy if left untreated. In Turkey, SMA affects 1 in every 6,000 births compared to 1 in 10,000 globally[i]. According to the Turkish health authorities, there are currently over 3,000 people living with SMA, and about 150 new cases are diagnosed each year. DMD, another severe neuromuscular disorder, affects over 4,000 genetically confirmed patients in Turkey[ii]. Under the leadership of Dr. Vivek Mundada, a British Board-certified Consultant Paediatric Neurologist at Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital has delivered remarkable outcomes in managing these complex genetic conditions. Unlike traditional therapies that require ongoing spinal injections, Medcare offers a one-time, potentially curative gene therapy that addresses the root cause of the condition, dramatically improving the quality of life and long-term health. Medcare is the first private healthcare provider outside the U.S.A. to successfully administer gene therapy for SMA in the MENA region, having delivered over 100 infusions to date at Medcare Women & Children Hospital. 'Dubai is becoming a center of medical innovation, and Medcare is proud to be leading that movement, especially in the field of rare genetic diseases,' said Dr. Vivek Mundada, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist at Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital. 'Through our comprehensive, patient-centered care model, we are transforming outcomes for children who previously had limited treatment options.' Medcare's approach goes beyond clinical excellence. Patients benefit from a multidisciplinary team that includes experts in neurology, pulmonology, orthopaedics, rehabilitation, and genetic counselling. The hospital also provides continuous follow-up care for international patients after they return home. Turkish families have already seen outstanding results. One such story is that of Mirha, diagnosed with SMA just nine days after she was born. In 2024, she underwent gene therapy at Medcare and is now thriving without the need for breathing or feeding support. Similarly, Elif Bade who was treated in March 2024 when she was just 2 years old, has shown remarkable progress following her gene therapy at Medcare. The parents of Mirha remarked, 'We cannot express enough gratitude to Dr. Mundada and the Medcare team. Thanks to the expert and compassionate care in Dubai, our daughter has been given a new lease on life.' Aligned with the UAE's vision to be a global hub for medical innovation and excellence, Medcare continues to invest in infrastructure, talent, and technology to offer best-in-class care. The newly launched rare disease unit at Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital in Dubai offers AI-powered diagnostics, robotic surgery, and advanced quaternary care, reinforcing its leadership in rare disease management. As part of Aster DM Healthcare, Medcare is committed to expanding access to advanced medical care for international patients, while contributing to the UAE's growing medical tourism sector, where families seek top-tier, cost-effective care without long wait times, especially for critical and time-sensitive conditions like the rare genetic disorders. [i] Turkey vs. Zolgensma: the battle over a $2.1 million drug – SWI [ii] About Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy – DMD Aileleri (Turkey)
Zawya
2 days ago
- Health
- Zawya
Dubai emerges as a regional hub for gene therapy breakthroughs
Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital is pioneering treatments for rare diseases including Spinal Muscular Atrophy and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, potentially saving young lives with a single treatment. Dubai – Dubai is rapidly establishing itself as a hub for cutting-edge gene therapy, with Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital Al Qusais being at the forefront of treating rare genetic disorders such as Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). With the hospital's proximity to the Dubai International Airport, a growing number of patients from Turkey, and other countries in the region and beyond are traveling to Dubai for life changing treatments. Medcare has been redefining excellence in the field of paediatric neurology and gene-based therapies, pioneering a new era of hope and healing for families affected by such debilitating conditions. Turkish families are increasingly turning to Medcare for SMA treatments, with incidence rates in Turkey significantly higher than the global average. The hospital's state-of-the-art facilities, international medical expertise, and holistic treatment model position it as a Centre of Excellence for gene disorders, not just in the UAE but across the MENA and the Asia-Pacific regions. SMA, a rare neurodegenerative condition, causes progressive muscle weakness and often proves fatal in infancy if left untreated. In Turkey, SMA affects 1 in every 6,000 births compared to 1 in 10,000 globally [i]. According to the Turkish health authorities, there are currently over 3,000 people living with SMA, and about 150 new cases are diagnosed each year. DMD, another severe neuromuscular disorder, affects over 4,000 genetically confirmed patients in Turkey [ii]. Under the leadership of Dr. Vivek Mundada, a British Board-certified Consultant Paediatric Neurologist at Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital has delivered remarkable outcomes in managing these complex genetic conditions. Unlike traditional therapies that require ongoing spinal injections, Medcare offers a one-time, potentially curative gene therapy that addresses the root cause of the condition, dramatically improving the quality of life and long-term health. Medcare is the first private healthcare provider outside the U.S.A. to successfully administer gene therapy for SMA in the MENA region, having delivered over 100 infusions to date at Medcare Women & Children Hospital. 'Dubai is becoming a center of medical innovation, and Medcare is proud to be leading that movement, especially in the field of rare genetic diseases,' said Dr. Vivek Mundada, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist at Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital. 'Through our comprehensive, patient-centered care model, we are transforming outcomes for children who previously had limited treatment options.' Medcare's approach goes beyond clinical excellence. Patients benefit from a multidisciplinary team that includes experts in neurology, pulmonology, orthopaedics, rehabilitation, and genetic counselling. The hospital also provides continuous follow-up care for international patients after they return home. Turkish families have already seen outstanding results. One such story is that of Mirha, diagnosed with SMA just nine days after she was born. In 2024, she underwent gene therapy at Medcare and is now thriving without the need for breathing or feeding support. Similarly, Elif Bade who was treated in March 2024 when she was just 2 years old, has shown remarkable progress following her gene therapy at Medcare. The parents of Mirha remarked, 'We cannot express enough gratitude to Dr. Mundada and the Medcare team. Thanks to the expert and compassionate care in Dubai, our daughter has been given a new lease on life.' Aligned with the UAE's vision to be a global hub for medical innovation and excellence, Medcare continues to invest in infrastructure, talent, and technology to offer best-in-class care. The newly launched rare disease unit at Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital in Dubai offers AI-powered diagnostics, robotic surgery, and advanced quaternary care, reinforcing its leadership in rare disease management. As part of Aster DM Healthcare, Medcare is committed to expanding access to advanced medical care for international patients, while contributing to the UAE's growing medical tourism sector, where families seek top-tier, cost-effective care without long wait times, especially for critical and time-sensitive conditions like the rare genetic disorders. About Medcare: Medcare is the premium private healthcare provider under the parent group, Aster DM Healthcare. Operating leading state-of-the-art Hospitals, including Medcare Multi-specialty Hospital in Dubai and Sharjah, Medcare Women & Children Hospital, Medcare Orthopaedics and Spine Hospital, and 20 medical centres in the UAE, Medcare has established a strong presence in the UAE. Medcare is dedicated to offering premium integrated health services in accordance with the highest quality. From talent to technology to facilities and treatment, Medcare maintains the highest possible standards in healthcare delivery. All Medcare hospitals and medical centres are accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), which is considered the gold standard in global healthcare. Apart from this, Medcare facilities have won several certifications. What sets Medcare apart is its exceptional multi-cultural, multi-lingual team of doctors who have received extensive training from some of the top-notch medical institutes around the world. Using a multidisciplinary approach, the Medcare team provides optimal, evidence-based treatments to patients, with the support of trained nurses, dieticians, rehabilitation therapists and technologists. Living by its simple promise 'We'll Treat You Well', Medcare's team is fully committed to providing high-quality, personalized medical care to every patient. For more information on Medcare visit or follow @Medcareae For media queries, please contact: Akshara Suresh Watermelon Communications Dubai, U.A.E. Email – akshara@
Khaleej Times
18-02-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
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.
Khaleej Times
07-02-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
Digital technologies transform UAE healthcare industry
A surge in these investments has led to the proliferation of digital health services, particularly in sectors such as telemedicine, data analytics, and AI-driven diagnostics, making these technologies accessible to large masses. 'The push for digital transformation aligns with the UAE's goals for enhanced healthcare accessibility, catering to an increasingly tech-savvy population,' Dr. Shanila Laiju, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Medcare Hospitals and Medical Centres, said. She highlighted how advancements in digital health technology have helped patients by enhancing accessibility, improving convenience, providing personalized care, empowering patients, and enhancing diagnostics. 'Platforms like Telemedicine and electronic medical records break down geographical barriers, allowing patients located in virtually any part of the world to consult with their preferred specialists without the need to physically visit the medical facility. Medcare's Telemedcare enables remote monitoring of patients' vital signs and symptoms, allowing for early intervention and improved care for chronic conditions,' she said. Patients gain access to health information and tools that empower them to take a more active role in managing their health. AI-powered technologies analyze large databases to provide individualized treatment regimens, identify potential health risks, and provide personalized recommendations to patients. 'AI diagnostics, such as the Airdoc retina scanning machine, AI-enabled MRI and CT scans, and precision-focused robot-assisted surgeries, are becoming increasingly popular,' Laiju said.
Web Release
06-02-2025
- Health
- Web Release
Medcare to launch 10 world-class Medical Centres in two years, ushering in a new era of community healthcare excellence
Medcare, the UAE's leading provider of premium healthcare services, has announced the expansion of its Medical Centres network to meet the rising demand for easily accessible premium and quality healthcare services. With six centres launched in 2024 and another five to be launched in this financial year, Medcare Medical Centres will expand to have 26 state-of-the-art facilities across Dubai and Sharjah. Designed as community-focused hubs, the medical centres are a notch above general clinics, in its capacity to provide comprehensive primary care services to individuals and families by specialised doctors, experienced staff, supported by in-house diagnostic solutions and additional services like physiotherapy. The new Medcare Medical Centres will increase access to comprehensive care in addition to the five multi-speciality hospitals located across Dubai and Sharjah. Medcare's Medical Centres served more than 400,000 people in 2023. In 2024, the number surpassed half a million patients, representing an increase of 20 percent in just one year. The new medical centers are strategically located in prime neighborhoods such as Palm Jumeirah, Tilal Al Ghaf, Damac Hills and Al Furjan in Dubai, and Al Zahia in Sharjah. Each facility offers a full range of medical specialties under one roof like general medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, cardiology, orthopedics, dental care, family medicine, among many others. By providing comprehensive care at accessible locations, Medcare eliminates the need for families to travel far to avail healthcare services, ensuring convenience without compromising on quality. Since commencing their MRI screenings last year, the medical centers have completed over 500 MRIs in just two months, demonstrating their critical role in fulfilling patient demands. Ms. Alisha Moopen, Managing Director & Group CEO of Aster DM Healthcare, stated, 'The introduction of the new medical centres in emerging family-centric neighbourhoods of Dubai and Sharjah, aligns with Medcare's aim to make premium healthcare services easily accessible for families, while strengthening its presence in the UAE. As we expand our network of experienced doctors and medical professionals who can meet the evolving healthcare needs of our patients, our priority remains to ensure that more patients have access to world-class care, conveniently located close to home. This growth marks a significant milestone in our journey to deliver comprehensive personalized healthcare with excellence.' Dr. Shanila Laiju, Group CEO of Medcare Hospitals and Medical Centres, said, 'Medcare is transforming healthcare by adopting modern practices to create a seamless, patient-centered experience, delivered by highly skilled and experienced doctors. From digital appointment booking to telemedicine and specialized services, Medcare Medical Centres will continue to serve our patients and families with excellence in medical care, at par with international standards. The expansion of our medical centers demonstrates our commitment to bridging healthcare gaps and providing community-based care. 'Digital health is central to Medcare's growth, making healthcare more accessible and convenient. We are expanding our telemedicine services for remote consultations and follow-ups and integrating advanced diagnostic facilities across all of our clinics to enhance patient care and accessibility,' she further said. Samer Hatoum, COO of Medcare Hospitals and Medical Centers, stated, 'The new medical centers will not only provide essential primary healthcare services like pediatrics and general medicine, but will also introduce specialized treatments tailored to the community's needs, such as orthopedics and sports medicine, rheumatology, endocrinology, pulmonology, diabetic retinopathy, dermatology and dental, cardiology, neurology, and advanced physiotherapy. We seek to improve the quality of care and health outcomes for our patients by embracing breakthrough medical technologies, such as sophisticated radiography and MRI services.' The new Medcare Medical centers aim to contribute to community health by providing preventative care, health education, and outreach services. By combining physical expansion with technological advancements, Medcare is building a robust healthcare network that serves both residents and medical tourists. This growth strengthens Medcare's position in the UAE's healthcare sector and elevates standards of care and service excellence, with a commitment to innovation and accessibility at the heart of its vision to enhance community health and well-being.
