Up to Dh200k fine for health ads without licence in UAE

Abu Dhabi - The UAE Cabinet will issue the executive regulations six months after the law is published.

Advertising 'affordable' medical procedures and health products without a licence can be penalised with fines of up to Dh200,000, according to a draft law passed by the Federal National Council (FNC) on Tuesday.  
The law aims to protect people from online and offline scams and advertisements that pose a health risk. The fines for such advertisements without obtaining a licence from the Ministry of Health and Prevention range between Dh100,000 and Dh200,000. The law also gives the ministry the authority to block websites if they breach the advertising regulations. 
The FNC passed the federal draft law for the use of information communication technologies (ICTs) in the health sector, which aims to protect residents, while enhancing the medical field in the UAE.
The new law will take effect three months after being published in the Official Gazette. The UAE Cabinet will issue the executive regulations six months after the law is published.
Central system for health records
The new law also allows for setting up a central system for medical records and health information.
The law aims to protect patients' data and can only be revealed with the patients' consent, unless the information is required by the health insurance provider, or judicial and inspection officials. 
The data may also be used for scientific studies. However, the identity of the patient cannot be revealed in such cases.
Initially, the draft law stipulated that the patients' records are to be saved by medical centres for 15 years. However, members of the council said the records should be extended to 25 years. 
"Some patients may need to get hold of their medical history, even if it dates back more than 15 years," said FNC member Naama Al Sharhan.
The law prohibits the mishandling or storing of any medical information outside the UAE. Those found violating this rule will face a fine between Dh500,000 to Dh700,000.
Abdul Rahman bin Mohammed Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention and Minister of State for FNC Affairs, stressed that the draft law is a major step in support of national health planning and policies.
jasmine@khaleejtimes.com