Free hospital services for stranded pregnant women in UAE

Abu Dhabi - The group has reached out to community organisations to help refer deserving cases for its three-month 'Janani' programme.

Pregnancy can be emotionally challenging if you are stranded due to the current pandemic travel restrictions. A hospital group in Abu Dhabi is doing its bit to ease pressure on such expecting mothers.
Ahalia Medical Group in Abu Dhabi is offering free of cost delivery for women stuck in the country. The group has reached out to community organisations to help refer deserving cases for its three-month 'Janani' programme.
"We understand the situation is difficult for everyone. This is a demanding time for our pregnant sisters. We are offering helping hands to those sisters who are unable to return to their home countries. They may be facing financial constraints due to unplanned stay here and getting anxious," said Dr V.S. Gopal, founder and managing director, Ahalia Medical Group.
"We have been here in the UAE healthcare sector for the last four decades and this is the right time to extend our helping hands to the needy in the community. As a trusted and responsible healthcare organisation, we want to reach out to them, and ensure a safe and stress-free delivery."
Ahalia Hospital in Hamdan Street and Mussafah, and Phoenix Hospital (formerly Al Bustan) in Shabiya -10 has collectively got 16 gynaecologists. The programme as of now is open till the end of September.
The hospital has engaged all major Indian and Sri Lankan associations functioning in the Capital in this service. "Needy people may not usually come to hospital seeking help but surely depend on community associations. So we have sought their guidance and cooperation," Dr Gopal added.
Nilanga Jayakody, president, Sri Lanka Cultural Foundation, praised the humanitarian gesture which will support those affected by the impact of the pandemic. "Many people have lost jobs and their lives have been turned upside down. Such jobless people and their families don't have health insurance cover. Purchasing medicine on their own is expensive for such families. Expecting mothers may find themselves under pressure in such helpless situations worrying about their delivery cost. Also they may not be able to fly out because of financial and other reasons. This initiative has come at the right time."
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com 

• Abu Dhabi