Life in Abu Dhabi these days has many benefits, which previously did not exist. However, modernisation has also resulted in a worrying pattern of chronic diseases amongst its residents.
This would be theme of the presentation of Dr Wafa Al Adhami, from the Public Health and Policy department, at the Health Authority Abu Dhabi (Haad), on the ‘Principals and Regulations of Medical and Professional Ethics’, during the First Annual Medical Professional Ethics Conference 2010.
“With 71 per cent of the population at risk of cardiovascular disease [cvd], and a projected increase of 940 cvd deaths per year by 2020, it is the duty of the government and the health professionals to act and develop new and innovative ways to tackle these medical challenges for the welfare of the community,” Al Adhami says.
A medical code of ethics in the UAE was started in 1998, by the Ministry of Health, with the aim of promoting and protecting the interest of patients, in accordance with Muslim values and internationally-recognised health care ethics. It’s three core values are: competence, respect and integrity.
“Haad seeks to consolidate transparency in decision-making, to promote professional integrity, ensure respect of the rights of health care workers and recipients of health care services alike, and to raise the level of competence of health care professionals,” said Dr Omniyat Al Hajiri, head of the ethics committee from the Haad.
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