Dubai: Children afraid of doctors and hospitals will soon be able to take their ‘sick’ toys for ‘medical treatment’ in Dubai, as part of a new initiative to reduce their anxiety if they need medical attention themselves.
The idea was put forward by Mahmoud Jamal Al Deen through the Mohammad Bin Rashid Smart Majlis app, and shared in a meeting with the Mohammad Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).
It is hoped that giving children a positive hospital experience will allay their concerns surrounding treatment, said the team from the university.
The university will adapt their simulation centre so that children can meet health workers who will assess and treat the toys. Toys that require surgery will be taken to a special operating room, where children can watch the procedure being carried out.
Dr Abdullah Al Karam, director-general of KHDA, said: “The toy hospital is a great example of how government can work together with the broader community to support children’s happiness. We’re looking forward to working with the team from [the university], as well as schools and parents, to help children across Dubai develop a more positive perception of doctors and hospitals.”
The Smart Majlis app allows all residents to participate in building the future of Dubai by providing a platform for sharing and implementing innovative ideas and solutions. Anyone with a creative idea to benefit teaching and learning in Dubai can submit it through the app, where it will be channelled to the KHDA team.
