The Dubai Health Authority has unveiled a significant overhaul of the health security framework in Dubai, introducing a dedicated disaster and crisis management office within its organizational structure.
This initiative aims to bolster the preparedness of the healthcare sector in Dubai, augment its capabilities, and equip it to effectively tackle various emergency challenges and health crises. The newly established office will assume key responsibilities, including the development and management of emergency systems, crisis response, and disaster preparedness measures, all geared towards enhancing community health security and elevating Dubai's global readiness indicators.
The Dubai Health Authority made this transformative announcement during its participation in the International Conference and Exhibition for Relief and Development (DIHAD) at the Dubai World Trade Center. The event saw the gathering of prominent figures from health institutions, scientists, doctors, and experts, both local and international.
Dr. Khaled Abdullah Lootah, Public Health Consultant and Director of the Disaster and Crisis Management Office, emphasized the office's robust capabilities, notably the Operations and Control Center equipped with state-of-the-art electronic and smart systems for disaster management. Additionally, the Dubai Disaster and Crisis Medicine Program, boasting top-tier international accreditation, provides advanced training in disaster response.
The office's mandates include enhancing Dubai's global preparedness standing, managing health emergency systems, and elevating the sector's readiness for disasters. It also involves formulating preventive strategies, training specialized personnel, and conducting scientific research and forecasting studies.
Two months ago, the Dubai Health Authority commenced the implementation of the Dubai Disaster and Crisis Medicine Programme. This initiative aims to enhance health preparedness and fortify the prevention and security system against potential emergencies through a unified, internationally endorsed approach. Over the next five years, the program targets the refinement of skills for 10,000 government and private healthcare leaders and staff, empowering them to adeptly manage disasters, crises, and emergencies.