DHA: Dubai hits almost 375,000 telehealth consultations in 2023

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has achieved a remarkable breakthrough in telehealth services, significantly boosting Dubai's reputation in digital healthcare. With nearly 375,000 telehealth consultations in 2023 — a 28% increase from the previous year — Dubai is setting new standards in virtual healthcare.

Alongside a 103% rise in electronic prescriptions, these milestones underline the city's commitment to advancing digital health infrastructure.

How does it work?

DHA has introduced comprehensive clinical guidelines to enhance the effectiveness of telehealth services. These guidelines, developed with leading medical publisher Karger, provide detailed protocols and best practices for healthcare professionals both in Dubai and internationally. They cover essential aspects of telehealth, such as clinical pathways, referral indicators, and follow-up requirements, ensuring consistency and quality in remote healthcare.

In addition, DHA's efforts have led to faster consultation times, with 85% completed within two days and satisfaction rates reaching 92% for patients and 97% for healthcare providers.

Why does it matter?

The adoption of telehealth services is not just about convenience; it's about accessibility, quality, and efficiency in healthcare.

"Dubai's healthcare sector is undergoing rapid transformations in its infrastructure, technology, facilities, and medical specialties," said Dr. Marwan Al Mulla, CEO of DHA's Health Regulation Sector.

By standardizing telehealth through innovative guidelines, DHA aims to empower healthcare providers to deliver more efficient and comprehensive care. This step aligns with global best practices, ensuring Dubai stays at the forefront of sustainable digital health solutions.

The context

Dubai has been pioneering digital healthcare initiatives since 2017, establishing a regulatory framework and engaging stakeholders to set standards and policies for telehealth. Today, over 140 licensed telehealth service providers operate in Dubai, reflecting the city's expanding digital health landscape.

Initiatives like the "Doctor for Every Citizen" program and private providers such as TruDoc Healthcare and Health at Hand have been recognized for their contribution to Dubai's digital health ecosystem. These efforts support Dubai's overarching digital health strategy, which aims to make healthcare more accessible while maintaining the highest standards of service.