FNC proposes higher Health Ministry budget for new construction

The Federal National Council (FNC) yesterday sent its proposals on the overall health policy of the government to Saeed Khalfan Al Ghaith, Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs, for Cabinet approval. The FNC on Tuesday discussed Health Ministry policies and drew up a set of recommendations.

The council recommended that all expatriates be provided with health insurance by their employers. "This will relieve the financial and administrative burdens of the ministry and help expats to select the required health care and reduce dependency on government health services," the FNC said.

Among the proposals was an increase in the Ministry of Health's budget to build more hospitals, clinics and health centres. The FNC also suggested building specialised hospitals for diabetes, cardiac treatment and organ donation. The council called for legislation designating the responsibility of doctors for mistakes in diagnosis and treatment.

Tightening technical control over private medical centres was also suggested. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health was criticised for doing little to help remote areas in Fujairah. Councilman Mohammed Hassan Salem Al Dhanhani said Dibba is one such area that gets little ministry attention.

He said Dibba and other similar areas lacked proper modern medical facilities. "Dibba does not have a full-fledged hospital to meet emergencies and special cases. People must travel 70 kilometres to Fujairah Hospital for treatment, so the ministry must look into these problems and find a solution," he said.

Most of the health services in the emirate and its suburbs are provided by charities such as the Sheikh Zayed Foundation for Charitable Activities and Humanitarian Services. "No modern facilities are available in hospitals. Even Fujairah Hospital lacks some modern equipment and often patients are referred to hospitals in other emirates," he added.