The Department of Health (DoH) in Abu Dhabi has imposed a hefty fine of Dh1 million on a health centre in the emirate following suspicions of fraud. Several doctors associated with the centre have been referred for investigation in connection with the alleged fraudulent activities.
The health centre has been barred from offering dental services across all its branches due to suspected fraudulent practices aimed at misappropriating public funds. This prohibition effectively restricts the centre from providing dental services in the future.
In a comprehensive crackdown on healthcare facilities, the DoH has implemented a series of stringent measures against establishments found to be in violation of healthcare laws, regulations, and policies in Abu Dhabi. Eight healthcare facilities have been shuttered following extensive inspections. Among these, three facilities, including an occupational medicine centre, a laboratory, and a medical centre, were found to have violated laws related to the prevention of infectious diseases.
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Additionally, four home care facilities were closed down due to non-compliance with the Department’s standards and regulations governing home care services. Furthermore, a dental clinic was shut down after numerous violations were substantiated, including the employment of unlicensed healthcare professionals and non-adherence to sterilization protocols.
The violations committed by these facilities include:
- Failure to report cases of infectious diseases
- Non-compliance with regulations for electronic reporting
- Inadequate provision of medicines or supplies for emergency cases
- Failure to prevent infection and maintain safe medical records
- Non-adherence to standards and regulations of home care services
- Lack of patient consent for treatment and failure to clarify treatment procedures and risks
- Employment of health professionals not licensed by DoH
DoH has emphasized the importance of compliance with its policies and regulations to uphold the efficiency of the healthcare system in Abu Dhabi, ensure the health and safety of all community members, and sustain healthcare services in line with international best practices.
The crackdown underscores the commitment of health authorities to uphold standards of integrity and quality in healthcare delivery across the emirate, safeguarding the well-being of residents and visitors alike.
