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Sanofi strong in emerging markets as rivals flag

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:40:59 GMT

French drugmaker Sanofi posted better-than-expected quarterly results, bolstered by strong emerging markets, breaking with a trend of earnings misses by European rivals AstraZeneca and GlaxoSmithkline.

Sanofi performed strongly in China, Brazil and Russia - crucial areas for international drugmakers as sales in their home markets decline due to patent expiries and government cuts in healthcare spending.

Its sales to emerging markets in the quarter rose 9.9 percent at constant exchange rates, in sharp contrast to an anaemic 2 per cent gain at GSK and just 1 per cent at AstraZeneca.

The booming middle classes of Asia and Latin America are expected to offer robust growth for makers of prescription drugs in the years ahead, but selling medicines into countries such as China, Russia, Brazil and Turkey can be tough.

Sanofi's rivals said they were hurt by instability in the Middle East, price cuts in Russia and Turkey, and early generic competition in Brazil.

"(Sanofi's) strong performance in emerging markets in particular will please, as will reiteration of guidance," Deutsche Bank analysts said in a note to investors.

Sanofi shares, which have risen around 8 per cent in the last year, were the second-best performers on the CAC40 index at 0815 GMT, trading up 2.9 per cent at 58.41 euros, while the index was down 0.1 per cent.

The Paris-based company confirmed that earnings could decline between 12 and 15 per cent this year as top-selling drugs previously protected by patents, including blood thinner Plavix, are hit by competition from cheap copies.

But it expects to return to growth in subsequent years thanks to emerging markets, diabetes, vaccines, animal health, Genzyme's biotech drugs and new products such as experimental multiple sclerosis drug Lemtrada.

"Although, as expected, Plavix will lose exclusivity in May in the U.S., the strong underlying performance of the business is consistent with our medium-term growth outlook," the chief executive Chris Viehbacher said in a statement on Friday.

Sanofi posted a 12.5 percent rise in first-quarter business net income to 2.44 billion euros ($3.23 billion), driven by a strong performance in emerging markets, biotech unit Genzyme, and diabetes drug Lantus. Consumer healthcare products and cost savings also helped drive earnings higher.-Reuters

Mubadala, DHA sign 'collaboration' MoU

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:40:59 GMT

Mubadala Healthcare and Dubai Health Authority (DHA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to discuss several key collaboration areas that will facilitate knowledge-sharing, partnership initiatives and improved access to care for patients in Dubai.

It was signed by Dr Mohammed Salim Al Olama, CEO of hospital services at DHA, and Suhail Mahmood Al Ansari, the executive director of Mubadala Healthcare.

The initial areas for collaboration outlined relate specifically to three of Mubadala’s facilities - Wooridul Spine Centre, Tawam Molecular Imaging Centre and National Reference Laboratory - and focus on the facilitation of patient and laboratory test referrals, knowledge exchange and the inclusion of these facilities in the Government of Dubai’s Enaya network.

Wooridul Spine Centre is the first facility of its kind in the region, entirely dedicated to spine care with minimally invasive, highly advanced and world-renowned treatment principles, a statement from Mubadala said.

DHA and Mubadala are now working to facilitate referrals from the Authority’s network to Wooridul Spine Centre for medical second opinions, physiotherapy and rehabilitation follow ups, and surgical cases that might otherwise be sent abroad for treatment.

It is envisioned that Wooridul Spine Centre and other Mubadala facilities will also be included in the Enaya network - the Government of Dubai employee healthcare benefits scheme - opening up access to this network of high quality patient care facilities for a significant number of patients in Dubai.

Enaya provides a broad range of medical insurance coverage including treatment for almost all types of ailments (chronic and/or acute). Preventative treatment is also covered along with routine health check-ups.

The programme encompasses 39 government-owned departments with more than 90,000 beneficiaries, including Dubai Government employees and their families, who receive high-quality services through direct access to DHA facilities and over a 1,000 service providers in the private sector within Dubai and beyond.

In addition, the MoU outlines the intention of the two organisations wherever possible to share and exchange technical support, medical equipment and provision of consultation facilities.

This includes the opportunity for Wooridul Spine Centre’s surgical team to utilise the operating theatre facilities at Rashid Hospital when required.

The two parties also intend to collaborate on Wooridul’s continuing medical education (CME) and visiting doctor programmes.

The second facility mentioned within the MoU is Tawam Molecular Imaging Centre in Al Ain – a specialist medical imaging facility that features state-of-the-art PET.CT imaging systems that are essential in the early detection and tracking of cancer, cardiovascular and neurological diseases.

The facility also includes a 3T MRI machine, which produces higher resolution scans in faster timeframes than conventional MRI units thereby enabling more accurate and timely diagnoses.

The MOU outlines the potential referral of patients within the DHA network to Tawam Molecular Imaging Centre, enabling better access for patients to the centre’s state-of-the-art imaging technology and expertise of Johns Hopkins Medicine.

National Reference Laboratory, a business established by Mubadala Healthcare to deliver high-quality medical diagnostic testing services, has two laboratory facilities – one in Dubai’s Biotechnology and Research Park (DuBiotech) and the main hub facility in Mussafah, Abu Dhabi.

The two organisations signed a separate three-year agreement for Dubai Health Authority to use National Reference Laboratory as an official referral lab for specialised tests.

“We are very excited to explore these areas of collaboration and build upon our solid relationship with Dubai Health Authority,” said Suhail Mahmood Al Ansari, executive director, Mubadala Healthcare.

“At the same time, we are delighted to announce the Laboratory agreement as the first outcome of the MoU and look forward to expanding upon this in the coming months,” he said. “It is through partnerships and knowledge-sharing initiatives like these that we hope to improve access to our world-class facilities and reduce the need for patients to seek treatment overseas.”

Dr Mohammad Al Olama, CEO of hospital services sector at DHA, said: “At DHA, we are committed to providing specialised care for our patients and this MoU helps us achieve that. The collaboration will ensure our patients have access to world-class health facilities that are available in the UAE.” – TradeArabia News Service

Seha to launch next stage of ‘Absher Doctors’

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:40:59 GMT

Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (Seha) has announced the launch of the second stage of its ‘Absher Doctors’ initiative.

The second stage will see mobile teams of specialists and subspecialists practice in various Seha clinics and medical centres across Al Ain and Al Gharbia. The programme’s first stage saw over 600 patients treated within four days at the Sheikh Khalifa Medical Centre in Al Gharbia – patients who otherwise would have to travel out of the area to seek specialised medical services.

The programme, introduced by Seha’s corporate office in February of this year, is its latest initiative towards implementing its commitment to provide world class healthcare to Abu Dhabi residents, a statement from an official said.

The initiative is designed to cope with the mounting need for certain clinical specialties and subspecialties across its network. Additionally, Seha seeks to minimise excessive wait times that result from supply and availability gaps, the statement said.

“Our mission of delivering world-class healthcare means that patient satisfaction, trust and loyalty are the central tenet of our operations,” said Khalifa Al Ketbi, deputy chief operations officer, Seha. “The ‘Absher Doctor’ programme will offer quick and convenient access to specialist consultation regardless of location, adding further value to the Seha health system.”

“After the success of the initiative and in line with its commitment to provide world-class healthcare services throughout the emirates, Seha decided to launch the second stage of this programme at the ambulatory healthcare services in Al Ain, including Al Hayer and Al Quaa, and in Al Gharbia area in Madinat Zayed Hospital and Al Dhafra Family Medicine Clinic to meet growing demand to provide quick, convenient service,” Ketbi added.

The initiative will provide patients in the area with quick, convenient access to specialist care, particularly in the fields of dermatology, ophthalmology, cardiology and nutrition, the statement said.

The initiative ensures that necessary medical expertise is made available throughout Al Ain and Al Gharbia by sharing human resources and implementing a regular service rotation system, minimising wait times and saving patients the inconvenience of transferring to alternate sites for medical care.

It addresses healthcare needs from a patient-centred healthcare perspective by establishing a specialty and subspecialty clinical resource pool of designated personal, which will be mobilised in a structured manner across the Seha health system as needed, it said.

The programme will ensure equitable access to quality healthcare by providing critical specialities to patients regardless of location, and foster opportunities for domestic healthcare teams to enhance competency and capacity via collaboration and knowledge transfer. – TradeArabia News Service

US delays decision on Takeda diabetes drug

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 09:02:02 GMT

Japan's Takeda Pharmaceutical Company said US regulators had extended their review of its diabetes drug alogliptin, requesting additional data on what the company hopes will be the successor to its top-selling Actos drug.

Shares of Takeda fell as much as 2 per cent after Japan's biggest drugmaker announced during Tokyo trading on Thursday that it had received the request from the US Food and Drug Administration.

Actos lost patent protection in 2011, and generic versions are expected to hit the market later this year.

The FDA had previously rejected Takeda's application for alogliptin in June 2009, asking for more safety tests. Takeda resubmitted applications for both alogliptin and a combination therapy with Actos in July 2011.

Takeda said it believes it can supply the FDA with the necessary data from outside the United States as well as from its ongoing clinical trials.

"We will immediately request a meeting with the FDA to determine the appropriate next steps and are committed to addressing outstanding issues," Thomas Harris, vice president of regulatory affairs, said in a statement.

Alogliptin belongs to a relatively new class of diabetes drugs called DDP-4 inhibitors for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It was approved in Japan last year and is marketed under the name Nesina.

Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors work to enhance the body's ability to lower elevated levels of blood sugar.

Nearly 26 million people in the United States, or 6 per cent of the population, have diabetes, with type 2 diabetes accounting for 90 per cent to 95 per cent of cases, according to the American Diabetes Association.

Global health care expenditures to treat and prevent diabetes and its complications were estimated at $376 billion in 2010, Takeda said.

Takeda shares were down 0.7 per cent at midday in Tokyo, compared with a 0.1 per cent rise in the benchmark Nikkei average. – Reuters

AUST workshop offers eye care training

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 09:02:02 GMT

The Academy of Eye Care Excellence and the American University of Science and technology (AUST) will host a series of workshops offering academic training for eye care professionals in Beirut.

The course will take place on April 27 and 28, at the AUST campus.

Conducted by Helmer Schweizer, head of professional affairs distributor franchise, Alcon Vision Care EURMEA and Dr Tarek Mahmoud, professional marketing manager, Alcon Vision Care ME, the course is designed to provide eye care professionals and eye care retailers advanced clinical and business management strategies to ensure the highest standards of patient care in the region.

“The academic training comes as part of our strategic partnership with the Academy of Eye Care Excellence to further contact lens research and education collaboration and to elevate eye care practices in the region to international standards,” said Dr Hiam Sakr, AUST president.

There are approximately 800 million people worldwide who are blind, severely visually impaired or have near vision sight loss, according to estimates by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness.

Of these, 45 million people are blind and 269 million are significantly visually impaired; an additional 517 million people require visual correction for reading and other close up activities.

Dr Mahmoud said that 80 per cent of blindness is treatable and/or preventable and normal vision could be restored with contact lenses or glasses.

“A total of 145 million people have low vision due to uncorrected refractive errors and in most cases, regular eye exams, glasses or contact lenses could transform the lives of millions of people,” he added.

The Academy for Eyecare Excellence is an initiative by Ciba Vision which is now part of the Vision Care Unit of Alcon, a Novartis Company.

“The goal of Alcon Vision Care, the worldwide leader in pharmaceuticals for the eye, is to be a trusted partner with eye care professionals,” said Dr Mahmoud.

“Through the Academy for Eye Care Excellence, we have a global commitment to share our knowledge and expertise to support clinical professionals in the Middle East. Our strategic alliance with AUST gives us the ideal platform to deliver on our commitment to the region,” he concluded. – TradeArabia News Service

UAE health centre wins global endorsement

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:17:37 GMT

UAE-based Imperial College London Diabetes Centre (ICLDC), a part of Mubadala Healthcare, said it has received two global endorsements from the Joint Commission International (JCI) within just six months since its opening.

An UAE-based specialist medical centre, ICLDC Al Ain was granted JCI accreditation in ambulatory care and JCI certification in clinical care program for diabetes management, both held by ICLDC Abu Dhabi since 2009 and 2010, respectively.

The Al Ain centre opened in September last year as part of Mubadala Healthcare’s strategy to bring world-class medical expertise to the region. The first centre opened in Abu Dhabi in 2006.

“Providing our patients with internationally recognised standards of quality care is paramount and I am delighted that ICLDC’s Al Ain facility has achieved this recognition after only six months,” remarked Suhail Mahmood Al Ansari, the executive director of Mubadala Healthcare and chairman of ICLDC.

“This accomplishment is testament to the tremendous clinical leadership at the Centre, the expertise provided by our partner Imperial College and the hard work and determination of the whole team,” he stated.

Dr Maha Taysir Barakat, ICLDC’s medical & research director and consultant endocrinologist said it was still the only medical facility in the world to hold both the JCI certifications.

Lauding the ICLDC for its success, Ann Jacobson, the executive director of International Accreditation for JCI said: “The citizens of the UAE should be proud that Imperial College London Diabetes Centre continues to focus on this most challenging goal – to continuously raise quality to higher levels.”

Since 1994, JCI has worked alongside healthcare organisations, health ministries and global organisations in more than 80 countries to improve patient care through the provision of accreditation and certification services, among other services.-TradeArabia News Service

Aspirin may lower cancer risk in women: study

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:35:09 GMT

Women who took aspirin at least a couple of times a week had a much lower risk of developing lung cancer, whether or not they ever smoked, according to a study of more than a thousand Asian women.

The findings, published in the journal Lung Cancer, linked regularly taking aspirin to a risk reduction of 50 per cent or more, although researchers cautioned that they did not prove aspirin directly protects against lung cancer.

But the study does back up a number of previous studies that linked regular aspirin use to lower risks of certain cancers, including colon, prostate and esophageal cancers.

'Our results suggest that aspirin consumption may reduce lung cancer risk in Asian women,' wrote Wei-Yen Lim, of the National University of Singapore, and colleagues.

But in an email Lim added: 'The question about whether aspirin use protects against lung cancer is still open to considerable debate at this point, and the published evidence to date is not conclusive.'

The study included 398 Chinese women diagnosed with lung cancer and 814 cancer-free women, and Lim's team found that women who had used aspirin regularly, at least twice a week for a month or longer, were less likely to have lung cancer.

Among women who had never smoked, the odds were 50 per cent lower for aspirin users versus non-users. Among smokers, aspirin use was tied to a 62 per cent lower risk of lung cancer.

The researchers were able to account for some other factors, such as the women's age, education and fruit and vegetable intake, but Lim said there could be still other differences to help explain why aspirin users had a lower lung cancer risk.

There was a fairly large relative difference in cancer risk between aspirin users and non-users in the study, but the absolute reduction in any one person's risk, if there is one, might be small.

There are biological reasons that aspirin might offer protection against cancer. It blocks an enzyme called cyclooxygenase-2, or COX-2, which promotes inflammation and cell division, and is found in high levels in tumors.

But Andrew Chan at Harvard Medical School, who was not involved in the study, said that the evidence on aspirin and lung cancer has been 'mixed.'

'The number one thing a person can do to minimise the risk of lung cancer is to not smoke,' he said.

There is stronger evidence that aspirin may be protective against colon cancer, according to Chan, a gastroenterologist who researches colon cancer prevention.

But he said that it's still too soon to recommend that all middle-aged and older adults take a daily aspirin, although discussing it with their doctor may be reasonable.

'People are usually interested in more than preventing one particular cancer. So it's important to view this in the context of a person's overall health.'

The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends that men aged 45 to 79 take aspirin to prevent heart attacks, as long as their personal benefit is likely to outweigh the risk of bleeding. For women age 55 to 79, aspirin is recommended to prevent ischemic strokes, with the same caveat. – Reuters

JCI re-accredits UAE hospital

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 07:25:33 GMT

The American Hospital Dubai has announced its re-accreditation by Joint Commission International (JCI), a subsidiary of the American accreditation organisation which sets the standards for the quality of healthcare organisations in the US.

It became the first hospital in the Middle East – and second in the world - to be awarded the accreditation in May 2000 and successfully underwent further surveys by the JCI in 2003, 2006, 2009 and now 2012, to maintain its accredited status.

JCI carries out surveys on its accredited hospitals every three years and this latest re-accreditation was awarded after an intensive, four-day survey undertaken by an evaluation team from the Commission.

Its latest on-site evaluation of the hospital was conducted by a team of international health care experts, including a physician, nurse and hospital administrator. The four-day survey covered around 374 JCI standards and over 1,200 measurable elements were examined.

Thomas Murray, CEO of the American Hospital Dubai, said: “We are delighted to successfully undergo this latest JCI survey because maintaining our JCI accreditation is a continuation of the quality journey and is only achievable through the close collaboration of all our physicians, staff and management as we continue to expand and develop our services.”

“This JCI survey was very extensive and rigorous and we are very pleased to report that the hospital passed the inspection with a very high degree of compliance across all JCI standards. The result is a testament to the strong teamwork at the hospital and another notable milestone for the hospital as we celebrate our 15th anniversary in this year.”

JCI is dedicated to improving the quality of health care through voluntary accreditation. Its uniform, high standards for patient care and safety are designed to be adaptable to local needs, thus accommodating legal, religious and cultural factors within a country.

Standards focus on the areas that most directly impact patient care. These include access to care, assessment of patients, infection control, patient and family rights, and education.

Standards also address facility management and safety, staff qualifications, quality improvement, hospital leadership, and management of information. – TradeArabia News Service

Dubai 'plans 200pc tobacco tax'

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 11:09:10 GMT

Dubai plans to double the levy it charges on tobacco to 200 per cent by August, Khaleej Times reported on Thursday, citing the head of the emirate's health authority.

"We will impose the tax on tobacco by August in co-operation with the Dubai Municipality," said Qadhi Al-Murooshid, director general of the Dubai Health Authority according to the paper.

He was speaking on the sidelines of a cardiology conference in Dubai.

The authorities, which hope the measure will deter smokers and reduce expenses on treating cardiovascular diseases, currently levy a 100 percent tax on tobacco products. Branded cigarettes are available from 7 dirhams ($1.91).

The current tax accounts for around one percent of Dubai's annual income, set at 30.4 billion dirhams for 2012. The government budget relies on various fees, taxes and customs for about 85 percent of total revenue.

A government official told Reuters the new rate would have to be imposed across all seven emirates if it decided to do so to prevent pricing differences. The federal finance ministry officials were not immediately reachable for comment.

The UAE, one of the world's top five oil exporters, has been looking at options how to diversify budget revenue possibly through introduction of a uniform corporate tax and value added tax to reduce dependence on volatile oil income. Officials have said no new taxes were planned over the next two years.

At present, the UAE's fragmented tax system is obscured by different charges and levies introduced by individual emirates, which run their own independent government budgets. Individuals do not pay income tax.

Dubai, which lacks oil wealth of neighbouring Abu Dhabi, has used a low-tax profile and tax-free zones to attract firms and cement its position as the Gulf trade and financial hub. - Reuters

Anti-stroke charter launched at cardio meet

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 11:09:10 GMT

A charter to offer solutions that could prevent millions across the Middle East from a stroke caused by atrial fibrillation (AF), a potentially life threatening condition, was launched at a global cardiology congress in Dubai.

The World Heart Federation’s World Congress of Cardiology Scientific Sessions 2012 (WCC) opened in Dubai yesterday (April 18), featuring a line-up of 600 world-leading expert speakers who will share 1,000 new scientific abstracts.

The Global Atrial Fibrillation Patient Charter is endorsed by 68 medical and patient organisations from 39 countries.

In an unprecedented worldwide call to action, the Patient Charter and supporting ‘Sign Against Stroke in Atrial Fibrillation’ campaign address this under-recognised but growing cardiovascular public health emergency.

It is estimated that almost 1.3 million people in the Middle East and North Africa live with AF, an abnormal heart rhythm and major risk factor for stroke.

AF causes the two upper chambers of the heart (the atria) to quiver instead of beating effectively, resulting in blood not being completely pumped out, which in turn causes pooling and can lead to clotting. These clots can travel to the brain and trigger a major and often fatal stroke.

In a global call to action, 68 patient organisations and medical societies from around the world are asking the general public, healthcare professionals and policy makers to work with them to drive action that will prevent serious and devastating AF-related strokes.

People are being encouraged to show their support by visiting the campaign website, www.signagainststroke.com, and signing the Charter.

“Alarmingly, throughout the Middle East there is a clear unmet medical need for stroke prevention in AF patients,” said Dr Wael Abdulrahman Almahmeed, Immediate Past President of the Emirates Cardiac Society.

“The majority of such strokes are preventable but the under-diagnosis as well as suboptimal use of anticoagulation, mean that an unnecessary and heavy burden is placed on patients, their families and careers. That is why we are asking people around the world to visit the website and sign the Charter.”

Atrial fibrillation has no geographic, gender or socio-economic boundaries and is responsible for approximately 20 per cent of all strokes caused by blood clots.

Stroke is the second leading cause of death in the world. In the Middle East and North Africa stroke is increasingly becoming a major health problem, with projections that deaths from it will nearly double by 2030.

“Despite being a common condition, AF is often under-diagnosed and, consequently, under-treated, resulting in inadequate stroke prevention,” said Professor Mohamed Sobhy, president, Egyptian Society of Cardiology.

“In the Middle East there is a clear lack of information regarding the burden of AF, despite the fact AF can increase our risk of stroke by 500 per cent. This needs to be urgently addressed.”

Crucially, AF-related strokes are more serious than those resulting from other causes. This means that people who do suffer an AF-related stroke are less likely to be able to return to their own homes and will need more care from their families or a nursing home.

However, with more attention to education, and diagnosis and treatment, the impact of these strokes on the individuals themselves, the health system and society can be reduced.

“Bayer HealthCare is proud to be supporting this campaign,” said Dr Flemming Ornskov, head of General Medicine, Bayer Healthcare Pharmaceuticals.

"Improving patient outcomes is of utmost importance. However, it will require everybody to work together, patients, healthcare professionals, policy makers, non-governmental organisations and industry. None of us can achieve this alone.” – TradeArabia News Service

New warnings on Novartis MS pill

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 11:09:09 GMT

European and US regulators have backed the continued use of Novartis AG's multiple sclerosis pill Gilenya, one of the Swiss firm's top new drug hopes, but said the drug needed to carry stronger warnings on heart risks.

Novartis said the decision meant the drug remained on-track to be a "blockbuster" - one with annual sales above $1 billion.
Prospects for Gilenya, the first multiple sclerosis (MS) pill of its kind, have been clouded by reports of its association with serious heart problems.

The European Medicines Agency (EMA), which launched a review into the safety of Gilenya in January, said doctors should not prescribe it to patients with a history of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease or those on heart-rate lowering medication.

If treatment with Gilenya was considered necessary in these patients, however, their heart activity should be monitored at least overnight following the first dose of the drug, it said.

All patients getting the drug should have an electrocardiogram (ECG) and a blood pressure measurement prior to the first dose and after a six-hour initial period, during which continuous ECG monitoring is recommended.

Novartis has agreed with the Food and Drug Administration that similar warnings be carried on the drug's label in the United States.
A committee of EMA experts said the possible risk of heart problems could be limited by these stronger warnings. "With these risk-minimisation measures in place, the committee concludes that the benefits of Gilenya continue to outweigh the risks," the agency said in a statement.

David Epstein, head of Novartis Pharmaceuticals, said he welcomed EMA's confirmation of Gilenya's positive benefit-risk profile "which also supports our continued belief of the blockbuster potential of Gilenya". - Reuters

Boy spends record time with artificial heart

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 07:11:28 GMT

Three year old Joe Skerratt is now a picture of health, but he was kept alive for 251 days by an artificial heart – longer than any other child in the UK.

Joe underwent a successful heart transplant at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) last year after being diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) soon after birth.

The condition, which causes the left and also sometimes the right hand side of the heart to stretch, left Joe’s heart muscle weak and unable to pump blood efficiently around his body.

Joe spent nine months in hospital attached to a device called the ‘Berlin heart’, a 15 kilogram machine the size of a small chest freezer, which supports the work of the heart and acts as a life-saving bridging device for children awaiting a transplant.

His parents, Mark and Rachel, have spoken for the first time to urge families to discuss organ donation and to join the NHS organ donor register.

Rachel said: “We are eternally grateful to the donor family. We cannot imagine what they went through. Their generosity of thought at such a horrendous time is completely selfless and amazing.

“Organ donation is a topic everyone should discuss. It is not just those with conditions present from birth who end up needing transplants. Some children, like Joe, will become very sick, very quickly.

“We would also like to thank all of the staff at Great Ormond Street Hospital for what they have done for Joe, but especially his consultant, Dr Alessandro Giardini, and the nurses on Ladybird Ward.”

Dr Giardini, consultant pediatric cardiologist at GOSH said: “We are really delighted to see Joe doing so well and thriving at home. He spent a long time with us in hospital.

“Joe was very lucky to be able to have a heart transplant. There is a chronic shortage of donor organs for children in the UK and at any one time we have several children in the hospital awaiting a transplant. Lots of children wait years for an organ to become available and can very sadly die while they are doing so.”

GOSH is the largest centre for cardiothoracic transplantation in the UK, and one of the largest in Europe. Later this year, the hospital will open the Wolfson Heart and Lung Centre, part of the Morgan Stanley Clinical Building. The new centre will contain state of the art inpatient, daycare and operating facilities. – TradeArabia News Service

Global cardiology summit opens in Dubai

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 07:11:28 GMT

The World Congress of Cardiology Scientific Sessions 2012 (WCC) opened in Dubai today (April 18), featuring a line-up of 600 world-leading expert speakers who will share 1,000 new scientific abstracts.

The four-day congress, organized by the World Heart Federation, was inaugurated by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates airline and Group at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

As a specialized event, the congress serves as a central platform and meeting point for cardiologists, healthcare professionals, medical societies, heart foundations, commercial and non-governmental entities, as well as cardiology trainees and medical students.

“The selection of the city of Dubai to host this congress reflects the international confidence in the State’s continuous successes and ability to host various international forums, as well as enhancing the distinguished reputation and prominent stature achieved by the UAE,” said Qadhi Saeed Al Murooshid, director-general of the Dubai Health Authority.

“A congress of this scale helps create much-needed awareness among all sections of society and is a platform to discuss the latest technology and procedures in treating cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The congress also discusses various forms of advocacy that governments can take up to control the number of people developing CVDs.”

Professor Sidney C Smith Jr, president of the World Heart Federation said: “The World Congress of Cardiology is the international platform for the cardiology community and over the next few days will bring together the world’s leading experts in the field of heart health, CVD and stroke.”

“The 10,500 delegates attending the congress will learn about the very latest scientific developments in the cardiology field. During the congress 1,176 abstracts from 95 countries will be presented by 570 speakers and chairs from 79 countries. The congress will play a vital role in helping delegates from developed and developing countries to share science to build capacity and grow partnerships that help in the fight against the world’s number one killer – cardiovascular disease (CVD),” he added.

Dr Fahad Baslaib, head of Cardiology Department at Rashid Hospital and president of the Emirates Cardiac Society said: “Although 80 per cent of cardiovascular diseases are preventable, yet CVDs are the leading cause of death worldwide. It is the leading cause of death in the United Arab Emirates. One in every 4 deaths in the UAE is caused by CVD.”

“These alarming figures are likely to increase due to the high prevalence of risk factors in our society, including diabetes, hypertension, smoking, and sedentary life-styles. We must act now and there is a need for governments, civil society and the private sector to work together to ensure advocacy and raise awareness levels.”

After the opening ceremony, delegates toured the exhibition area and were impressed by the latest medical devices that were showcased, and by the vast selection of new medication, which were presented by more than 80 of the world’s largest medical suppliers and premier manufacturers.

The WCC 2012 features a programme of clinical seminars, workshops, plenary sessions, meet-the-expert sessions and stimulating debates. – TradeArabia News Service

Bahrain doctors told to shun politics

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 07:11:28 GMT

The Prime Minister of Bahrain yesterday (April 18) called on doctors to steer clear of politics and protect their noble profession from infiltration by extremist factions.

HRH Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa praised the successful board elections of the Bahrain Medical Society, which reflected a determination to uphold the professional role of the society.

HRH the Premier was speaking as he received the society's new board.

He reiterated the government's commitment to improving professional conditions and raising living standards of medical and health practitioners.

He instructed the Civil Service Bureau to study suggestions submitted by the society in this regard.

HRH the Premier urged doctors to take part in the nation's affairs like any civil society and to firmly support the interests of the motherland.

He also urged them to keep abreast of latest developments in their field and contribute to the development of medical and health facilities.

He hoped the society would remain unharmed by a faction's unethical activities. He cited the kingdom's success over the past four decades in boosting medical services which helped it to rank amongst countries having the least fatality rates and longest life spans.

He said the government's policy was to expand health services focusing on specialist medical centres to provide the best services for citizens.

Health Minister Dr Sadiq Al Shehabi and society chairperson Dr Maha Al Kuwari thanked HRH the Premier for his directives. – TradeArabia News Service

Bahrain to set up new health centre

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 12:22:00 GMT

Work has started on a new BD40,200 ($106,600) health centre in Muharraq, Bahrain, which is expected to open in 2014.

It will have 80 to 100 specialists, said a report in our sister publication the Gulf daily News.

HRH the Premier yesterday (April 17) deputised his adviser Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa to lay the foundation stone for the new health centre.

Shaikh Salman asserted the government's commitment to provide optimum medical services across Bahrain and making them easily available in neighbourhoods.

He praised plans to equip the centre with latest technology and recruit qualified medical and technical staff to ensure top quality services for people. – TradeArabia News Service

Focus on stroke at Dubai conference

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 12:22:00 GMT

Stroke, the destruction of brain tissue from blockage or rupture of blood vessels, is one of the leading causes of death and permanent disability in the Arab world.

It is second only to heart attack as a cause of death in the region, a report said.

Preliminary studies suggest that the main risk factors for stroke in Arab countries are undiagnosed or untreated high blood pressure (hypertension), abnormally elevated blood sugar (diabetes), smoking and elevated cholesterol, said a statement.

In Arab countries ischemic stroke resulting from blockage of brain arteries is the most common type of stroke, although data from Sudan indicates that 41 per cent of all strokes in that country are brain haemorrhages due to rupture of cerebral arteries from hypertension. Recent information indicates that these same risk factors for stroke also damage memory and predispose to Alzheimer’s disease in the elderly.

Public Health advances in the past few years have shown that national programs have made it possible to decrease the risk of stroke around the world. Moreover, with optimal medical treatment the prognosis of acute stroke can also improve, lowering the risk of death and decreasing the severity of the sequels, it said.

Better prognosis depends of knowledge on the part of the public of the warning signs of stroke, along with rapid attention and efficient stroke units in hospitals.

These advances and experiences in stroke management in several Arab countries were discussed at the First Middle East & North African Symposium on Stroke held in Dubai recently under the aegis of Ferrer Group (Barcelona, Spain).

Distinguished speakers and physicians from Algeria, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, UAE and Pakistan participated in the conference.

Founded in 1959, Ferrer is a privately-held Spanish pharmaceutical company, with full vertical integration from R&D to distribution. It is present in more than 90 countries, with 23 international affiliates. Ferrer is active in the pharmaceutical, health, fine chemicals and food sectors, key areas for contributing to people’s health and quality of life. – TradeArabia News Service

Du, Mobile Doctors launch physician helpline

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 11:10:24 GMT

UAE telecom company du has launched the unique Physician Helpline in partnership with Mobile Doctors 24/7 International who are licensed by Dubai Healthcare City.

This affordable around-the-clock phone service provides indispensable support to du’s customers by giving them access to licensed and experienced medical professionals at any time - day or night, said a statement.

The launch coincides with World Health Day. In keeping with this theme, du and Mobile Doctors believe that every individual and family deserves to have immediate and unlimited access to quality physicians, regardless of patient location or time of the day.
Mobile Doctors’ new service provides du customers with access to instant home care, telemedicine, telemonitoring and professionals with decades of clinical experience via a technology-enabled patient-centric approach to needed healthcare, the statement said.

At less than Dh1 a day (terms apply) – anyone, anywhere can now have access to a Mobile Doctors on-staff physician. This endeavour brings to life the vision of a healthy nation as laid out by the leadership of UAE, it said.

“The 24/7 Physician Helpline is an invaluable service for our customers, giving them the reassurance that, no matter when or why they might need medical assistance, they will have a team of professional physicians available to them,” said Farid Faraidooni, chief commercial officer, du. “We are very pleased to offer this service following a successful pilot project by Mobile Doctors. This fully operational and value-added initiative will prove as an essential tool in ensuring our customer’s well-being, all the while delivering measurable benefits to the insurance and corporate sectors as well.”

He added: “The Mobile Doctors Physician Helpline is another example of how the telecommunications industry is able to participate in the national healthcare ecosystem, for both the welfare of our customers and to support our government. By providing such mobile health services, we can reduce the burden of high cost healthcare on the public sector and improve capacity utilisation of quality healthcare across the UAE, thus saving funds that can be distributed elsewhere.”

The Mobile Doctors Physician Helpline was first made available to 40,000 select du customers by Mobile Doctors for a free of charge 60-day pilot project earlier this year. Statistics gathered by Mobile Doctors, du’s partner, have shown that during the trial period, the majority of users were aged between 20 and 39 years (52 per cent). This is reflective of the socio-economic needs of this group, which includes dual-income families and on-the-move executives who are more likely to benefit from the mobile connectivity and on-demand services.

Also very encouraging was that a quarter of patients were less than 12 years old (26 per cent), thus increasing the availability of quality medical care for children.

According to Dr Jamie McReynolds, chief medical officer of MD24-7, “Many patients find that they or their family members are faced with symptoms that leave them unsure of what is needed exactly. Subsequently, they may feel that the Emergency Room is their only choice. Mobile Doctors is able to help patients with any symptoms to assess and understand their affliction, so that the right decision can be made.”

This novel service can be subscribed as a 6-months plan, for both individuals and families. As a special introductory offer, the Physician Helpline service is also available to du customers at Dh29 for a full day trial package. This is valid for 24 hours and includes as many unlimited duration calls as needed and will also be supplemented by personalised follow-up calls from Mobile Doctors when needed.

To avail this service, du customers can SMS “MD” to 9167 and start using the Physician Helpline anytime. More information is available on www.du.ae/mobiledoctorsor. - TradeArabia News Service

1pc of newborns diagnosed with heart disease

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 06:46:32 GMT

One per cent of tested newborns were diagnosed with congenital heart disease (CHD) while 0.3-0.5 per cent of newborns were diagnosed with critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) in a UAE study conducted by Tawam Hospital.

Tawam Hospital, in affiliation with Johns Hopkins Medicine, today (April 11) revealed data from its one-year Newborn Screening for Critical Congenital Heart Diseases program.

Implemented in accordance with the Health Authority-Abu Dhabi (HAAD) regulations, the program screened 98 per cent of eligible infants (4,473), born at Tawam Hospital in 2011, using the non-invasive and cost-effective Pulse Oximetry method.

The Pulse Oximetry method is applied by placing a sensor across the infants’ feet 24 hours after their birth. It monitors the level of oxygen in a patient's blood and alerts the medical staff if oxygen levels drop below safe levels.

Dr Mohamed Hamdan, consultant and head of Paediatric Cardiology at Tawam Hospital, stressed that CHD is the most common congenital anomaly, occurring in about one per cent of newborns.

“Nearly half of the babies with CHD have ‘critical’ lesions which require medical or surgical intervention in the first week after they are born. If these lesions are not detected early, there is a significant risk of death or bad neuro-developmental outcome,” he said.

“We have applied the Pulse Oximetry method because other current methods of detection, including fetal echocardiography (heart ultrasound for babies in the womb), can miss up to 50 per cent of cases, resulting in diagnosis being missed before newborns are discharged from hospital.”

“Our findings are comparable to internationally published data. In Abu Dhabi, where live births are around 25,000 per year, the cases of CCHD are estimated to be 50-75 per year, of which death can result in 100 per cent of cases if these heart defects are not detected and referred for treatment in the neonatal period,” Dr Hamdan noted.

“We encourage other facilities to adopt this program and our results provide justifications for a wider application of such program across the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the UAE.”

In August 2011, the Health Authority-Abu Dhabi issued standards for Newborn Screening Requirements, including Pulse Oximetry, for all newborns in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

Newborns admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit were excluded from the program, while those with arterial oxygen saturations (less than or equal to 95 per cent) were referred for prompt echocardiography, an ultrasound that detects any abnormality in the heart, before being released from the hospital.

False negative results were tested by contacting the parents and asking specific questions about whether their babies were hospitalized within one month of discharge, as well as examining medical records across Seha facilities.

Tawam Hospital is part of the Seha Health System and is owned and operated by Seha, which is responsible for the curative activities of all the public hospitals and clinics in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. – TradeArabia News Service

American Hospital names new OGB physician

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 06:46:32 GMT

The American Hospital Dubai has appointed US Board Certified Dr Mia Branch as an obstetrician/gynecologist at the hospital’s campus in Dubai.

Dr Branch undertook her basic medical training at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in 1999, and completed her Residency at the Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia in 2003.

Dr Branch was awarded her US Board Certification in Obstetrics and Gynecology in 2005.

Prior to joining the American Hospital Dubai, Dr Branch worked as a staff physician at the Florida Hospital Heartland Division and the Florida Physicians Medical Group, based at the Women’s Wellness Center, Sebring, Florida.

She was also chief, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and vice chief, Department of Surgery, at the Center.

“Our obstetrics and gynecology clinic is at the very heart of the Hospital’s care for women in the community and underpins our Well Woman programme,” said Thomas Murray, CEO of the American Hospital Dubai.

“The clinic is one of the most active practice areas of the Hospital, offering screening, diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of conditions. We are delighted to welcome Dr Branch to the team, and her experience and expertise will be a tremendous asset to the hospital.” – TradeArabia News Service

ADFCA to make tracking labels mandatory

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 06:46:32 GMT

Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) has decided to make tracking labels mandatory for all veterinary drugs in the emirate.

All pharmacies and veterinary depots are now required to stick labels to the drug container containing complete information about the pharmacy or depot selling the drugs, a statement from the ADFCA said.

The decision comes with a view to guard against and easily track in case of any potential health risks to humans or animals from the drugs.

Mohamed Jalal Al Reyaysa, director of communication and community service at ADFCA, said that the mandatory tracking labels on the drug container should contain the name of the pharmacy or depot that sells the drugs, its location and phone number.

"This step has been taken in order to regulate the sale of veterinary drugs better and to preempt their random circulation. This is crucial to protecting the rights of the consumers," he said.

"The label will come in handy in case of any untoward incident involving veterinary drugs. The consumer has the right to get safe products. We call upon the public not to buy veterinary drugs not having the tracking label on the container,” Al Reyaysa added. “The decision is based on two decrees from the Ministry of Environment and Water concerning technical and health conditions for veterinary depots and pharmacies."

Veterinary establishments had been given sufficient time – up to two months – to implement the decision, he said. Routine inspections will now focus on following up the implementation.

The move is part of ADFCA's efforts at establishing a tracking system for products across the chain of production and distribution, starting from the factory all the way up to the consumer.

"It is possible for the consumer to ensure the drug seller's adherence to the rules and regulations concerning registration of all veterinary drugs, their quality and preservation methods. The tracking system makes the whole process much more effective now," he added.

The veterinary services unit of ADFCA is currently on an inspection programme, in partnership with the establishments, to explain to the depots and pharmacies the rules and regulations that private veterinary establishments have to follow, besides the methods of circulating veterinary drugs and the list of prohibited drugs.

The inspectors are also emphasising, with the onset of summer, the correct preservation methods for drugs, the statement said. – TradeArabia News Service

Healthcare upgrades focus for summit

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 07:00:30 GMT

Strengthening healthcare infrastructure in the GCC would boost overall expenditure as well as per capita spending through improved services at new facilities, said experts ahead of a major hospital management summit in Dubai.

Hospital Build & Infrastructure Middle East 2012 will take place from June 4 to 6 at the Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre.

UAE-based DM Healthcare, an exhibitor at the congress, plans to expand its healthcare units to 300 across the Gulf and India by the end of 2015 with investments of $500 million.

“DM Healthcare is on the verge of acquiring a multi-specialty hospital in Bahrain. We also plan to extend this by a further two healthcare units in Bahrain by 2015. Our decision is very much based on market demand,” said Jobilal M Vavachan general manager for Business Development at DM Healthcare.

Alpen Capital’s GCC Healthcare Industry Report (Dec 2011) indicates that Bahrain’s 2011-12 budget allocated BD534 million ($1.41 billion) for health projects and services and the government is expected to implement compulsory health insurance for expatriate workers from 2013 onwards.

Healthcare services are expected to expand at a CAGR of 5.9 per cent to $0.8 billion in 2015 from an estimated $0.6 billion in 2012. King Hamad General Hospital, due to open later in 2012, is one of the major projects (investment outlay of $0.3 billion) expected to improve healthcare infrastructure in the country.

According to Zawya Project Monitor, existing healthcare infrastructure in the GCC is valued at more than $10.2 billion.

“The healthcare landscape in Bahrain differs from other GCC countries. It is the smallest healthcare market in GCC considering its low population base,” said Vavachan. “With its strategic location next to one of the largest healthcare markets, a large number of Bahraini’s visit Saudi Arabia for high-end treatment.”

“Bahrain’s healthcare infrastructure has been growing at a very slow pace and requires large private sector participation. However, in order to deliver a world class service Bahrain will need state-of-the art infrastructure and comprehensive programs to deliver quality care.”

“Within Bahrain, a strategic reform program is under-way across the entire healthcare system and a new health authority was recently formed to deliver quality healthcare in the country,” he added.

Speaking as chair of the Healthcare Management Excellence Congress, taking place at Hospital Build & Infrastructure Middle East 2012, Dr Sanjiv Malik, executive director, DM Healthcare said: “There is a paradigm shift in the way hospitals are constructed, designed and managed today. With new players coming into the private healthcare segment in Bahrain, it is important that healthcare services are provided efficiently, with empathy, be based on evidence-based medicine and that healthcare facilities embrace the tools and techniques of effective healthcare management principles.”

“Healthcare services provided efficiently will also reverse the trend of local population traveling to other countries for their healthcare needs and will in future encourage in-bound medical tourism. The Healthcare Management Excellence Congress aims at addressing issues such efficiency enhancement, customer satisfaction, marketing and PR tools, etc.”

Hospital Build & Infrastructure, organised by Informa Life Sciences Exhibitions, is a global business-to-business platform dedicated to bringing together investors, commissioners, backers and managers of healthcare-related building projects with key players in planning, design, construction, operations, management, supply and refurbishment.

“As investment in the region's healthcare infrastructure continues to rise, this event is set to be bigger than ever with more than 130 exhibitors covering 5,000 sq m of exhibition floor space, an estimated 4,500 visitors, as well as more than 600 conference delegates,” said Simon Page, managing director – Life Sciences, Informa Exhibitions.

At this year’s event, Deloitte we will be presenting a series of free healthcare landscape presentations outlining the challenges in regional healthcare regulation as well as capacity planning for healthcare projects. – TradeArabia News Service

Euro Mena acquires 51pc of Egypt hospital

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 07:00:30 GMT

Leading private equity fund in the Middle East, Euro Mena II, has acquired 51 per cent of Al Oyoun al Dawli Hospital, a prominent medical centre for eye surgery and treatments in Egypt.

Romen Mathieu, managing director, EuroMena II, said: “We are highly optimistic in Egypt’s future and confident that it will overcome the period of instability and emerge stronger from this historical transformation. Accordingly, it is by no means strange that we are investing in Al Oyoun Al Dawli Hospitals which is the first investment in the healthcare sector in Egypt following the January 25 Revolution.”

“Negotiations to conclude this investment were ongoing even during Egypt’s most difficult days” he added.

Wassim Heneine, senior investment manager of EuroMena II, said it found an “ideal opportunity for a successful investment that complies with EuroMena’s high investment standards.”

“Several factors encouraged us to carry out this investment including Al Oyoun Al Dawli’s brand equity, wide network of hospitals, high quality doctors and staff as well as its latest medical technology,” he said. “It is one of the largest eye surgery and treatment hospitals and clinics in Egypt in terms of operations performed, number of operating theatres, and clinics all gathered under a single brand-name.”

“We will build, together with the founders, doctors and staff, on the existing accomplishments and great track record to expand to neighboring countries and set up branches in several Arab countries,” Heneine added.

EuroMena II has already made three investments and is on its way to be fully invested in the next 6 to 12 months, a statement said.

Al Oyoun Al Dawli started operating its first branch in Dokki in 1999. Since then, it has opened branches in Heliopolis, Dar al Fouad, and Fayoum. In addition, the group is the first private hospital in Egypt that has the license and equipment to offer ocular oncology.

Prof Dr Beshr Kenawy, chairman of Al Oyoun Al Dawli, welcomed the partnership saying the support of EuroMena II will be key in assisting the group to achieve its ambitious expansion plan.

These plans include establishing four new branches to meet the growing demand of patients for quality care. “The largest of these branches will be in the 6th of October, expected to be commissioned in 2013. The three other branches will be located in Fayoum, Damietta and Luxur. Accordingly, the number of operation theaters will become 42 and the external clinics 115.”

In 2003, the hospitals earned the ISO 2000:9001 accreditation. Under the new partnership, it will seek the JCI accreditation.

Prof Dr Ahmed Barrada, co-founder of the group, said: “We look forward to replicate this success and become leaders in the field of ophthalmology, eye-surgery and Lasik in the Arab World as is the case in Egypt.”

EuroMena and the founding doctors stressed on their vision to use Al’Oyoun Al Dawli as a platform to build a healthcare group in a region that provides good opportunities for investment. – TradeArabia News Service

SGH-Dubai trains with Finnish doctors

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 07:00:29 GMT

The newly-opened Saudi German Hospital (SGH) – Dubai recently conducted training with a group of specialists from a Finnish organisation to share skills with the hospital's rehabilitation doctors.

The training course conducted with the personnel from the Finnish organisation DBC focused on the treatment of muscles and bones.

The course is one of the most highly-rated specialty courses in the world, and has had a very positive impact in the treatment of bone and muscle disorders, a statement said.

Dr Mohaymen Abdelghany, CEO of the Saudi German Hospital-Dubai, said, "This session is in line with our constant endeavor for excellence and enhancing access to specialized services. We aspire to continuously enhance our standards and provide world class medical services in the region."

"This is a very important course and we are proud to be conducting it in conjunction with one of the world's best specialists in the field of bones and muscles, DBC. This organization has had enormous success around the world in treating these types of disorders. They have conducted over 70 scientific research studies, which shows just how meticulous their work is,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service

Bahrain opens $7m health centre in Gaza

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 07:00:29 GMT

Bahrain has opened a BD2.7 million ($7.16 million) health centre in Gaza, which will serve more than 130,000 Palestinian refugees, including 6,000 diabetics, and provide healthcare for 10,000 children.

The Royal Charity Organisation (RCO) inaugurated the facility, the largest of its kind there, in co-operation with the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).

RCO secretary-general Dr Mustafa Al Sayyed, UNRWA Commissioner-General Peter Ford and other officials attended.

Dr Al Sayyed reaffirmed Bahrain's resolve to continue co-operation with UNRWA in serving Palestinian refugees, particularly in the fields of education and health.

Bahrain has funded the establishment of Manama School in Tal Al Hawa, and Fakhoura Library in the north of the Strip.

An agreement has also been signed to revamp the Dir Al Balah Centre for the Handicapped in Central Gaza. – TradeArabia News Service

Sharjah sets up healthcare city

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 07:00:29 GMT

Sharjah's Ruler has issued a decree setting up the Sharjah Healthcare City (SHCC) as a medical free zone authority, a report said.

The city will be a corporate body, enjoying financial and administrative independence, a Gulf News report said.

The location and geographic boundaries of the city will be determined upon a resolution to be issued later by the ruler, it said.

Th city will be managed by an administrative body that will work under the supervision of the Free Medical Zone Authority, and will be run by a board of directors. The new entity will be responsible for promoting the emirate as an international health care centre, said the report.

It will have the mandate to set up health care, medical and pharmaceutical companies and institutions, physiotherapy and massage centres, health care consultancy services, hospitals, medical transport services, spas, sports and social clubs, health-related IT institutions, and all health- related facilities.