Dubai clinic that's 'not dependent on medicines' launched

In a bid to prevent non-communicable diseases, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has launched a 'Lifestyle Clinic' to provide a "community-based healthcare model, which adopts a new style for prevention".

The clinic is not dependent on drug prescription but offers "comprehensive behavioural, social and psychological care". The clinic, run by the DHA's Primary Healthcare Services Sector, aims to provide prevention programmes for persons at risk of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

It also provides prevention programmes to persons with risk factors, such as those who are overweight and obese, are lacking in physical activity, consume unhealthy food, have a family history of diabetes, are suffering from psychological stress and are smokers.

The clinic's services are available in Nad Al Hamar Health Centre and Al Barsha Health Centre. However, community members can visit any primary healthcare centres to be referred.

Manal Taryam, CEO of DHA's Primary Healthcare Services Sector, said that the clinic is in line with the vision of the DHA's vision towards a healthier and happier community.

She added that preventing non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and heart diseases will improve overall health and lead to a better quality of life in line with Dubai Plan 2021 to reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases.

Dr Hanan Al Hammadi, consultant and acting director of the health affairs department at the primary healthcare services sector, said that the clinic comprises of family physicians, nurses, dieticians and health educators.

Those who visit the clinic will be seen by three specialists and get three services: Family medicine, dietary services and health education clinic.

She added that the goal of the Lifestyle Clinic is to change client's behaviour to a healthy one that will become a part of their daily life. In a way that each clients' routine will include increase in physical activity, healthy balanced diet with daily consumption of fruits and vegetables, proper night sleep, dealing properly with stress and drinking enough water. The healthcare team will also encourage family members to do the same changes as family members provide a support system for customers in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

reporters@khaleejtimes.com