The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) in the UAE has announced its plans to develop a National Policy to Enhance Women’s Health, aimed at improving the overall health and well-being of women in the country. This initiative is set to provide specialized healthcare services tailored to the unique needs of women, within a unified and multisectoral national framework, achieved through collaboration with strategic partners.
The primary objective of this policy is to align with the UAE’s commitment to offering top-tier physical and psychological healthcare services for women across all stages of their lives. By integrating a range of core values, including leadership support, effective governance, gender equality in healthcare, a comprehensive life cycle approach to well-being, and a commitment to quality and inclusivity in women’s health services, the new policy is set to lay a robust foundation for women’s healthcare.
Abdul Rahman bin Mohamed Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention, highlighted that the enhancement of healthcare standards and the pursuit of sustainable development in the health sector are central priorities for the UAE. Women’s health, he emphasized, is not only an integral part of this overarching vision but also a testament to the nation’s unwavering dedication to its populace.
In conjunction with the celebration of Emirati Women’s Day, the Ministry organized a workshop focused on devising a unified national framework to streamline efforts across sectors, boost women’s health, and continually enhance both preventative and curative healthcare services catering to women’s diverse needs. The workshop convened various stakeholders, including representatives from health authorities, public health experts, and partners from diverse sectors committed to advancing women’s health.
The workshop centered on assessing the current state of women’s health services, devising strategic mechanisms for their advancement, and analyzing pertinent local and global statistics. Key discussions encompassed reinforcing maternal and reproductive health, addressing prevalent chronic diseases among women, providing mental health support, catering to elderly women’s care, and launching health education and awareness campaigns tailored for women of different age groups in the UAE.
Dr. Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Undersecretary for the Public Health Sector, commended the collaborative efforts between MoHAP and various stakeholders in shaping the national policy to elevate women’s health. He underscored the distinctive status of women in the UAE, emphasizing the resolute support of the nation’s visionary leadership that has empowered women to play crucial roles within the healthcare sector.
Dr. Lubna Al Shaali, Director of Public Health Policy Department, affirmed the ongoing efforts to draft an initial version of the national policy to enhance women’s health, in close cooperation with stakeholders. This draft will encompass the policy’s vision, values, and multifaceted objectives, with alignment to the directives of the UAE government and global best practices.
