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Dr. Ahmed Al-Awar emphasized that the college is keen to sign Memorandum of Agreements with public and private healthcare institutions to open new horizons to train our students and appoint our graduates from different specialties. He highlighted that the college management are looking forward to more collaborations with the private medical sector, which is considered a strategic partner with the public sector.

He also added that the private healthcare sector in Abu Dhabi with its multiple key facilities is capable of accommodating more graduates from Fatima College and training them in accordance with the highest standards and educational levels which will enhance their competencies.

Mr. Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa Al Hammadi said that UEMedical is ready to collaborate with Fatima College of Health Sciences in different areas, highlighting that the group through Danat Al Emarat Hospital for Women & Children, HealthPlus Fertility Centers, HealthPlus Network of Specialty Centers and Moorfields Eye Hospital Abu Dhabi will train students according to the college requirements and plans.

He also added that as part of the MOU, UEMedical would work closely with Fatima College to attract its graduates, especially Emiratis to work in UEMedical’s different facilities. “We also look forward to the mutual benefits of this MOU, as Fatima College would continuously present advanced executive training courses to our team members.”

Dr. Hamed Al Neyadi, Senior Manager Executive Government Relations at Fatima College, said: “We always seek to cooperate with top hospitals who are known for their quality care in order to train our students who would excel in their specialties and who would be then ready to contribute and work in the private health sector in UAE. Today, we are collaborating with Danat Al Emarat Hospital, a renowned specialized hospital and is considered one of the key leading facilities in Abu Dhabi, besides HealthPlus Network of Specialty Centers and Moorfields Eye Hospital Abu Dhabi.”

This MoU aims to promote cooperation between the two parties entering into a strategic partnership in the fields of health sciences and in all areas of common interest to achieve the vision and strategic objectives for both parties, and to attract and nominate students from FCHS for scholarships and later employments in the appropriate fields in the group.

According to the MoU, UEMedical will also participate in FCHS advisory / stakeholder meetings, and cooperate in the fields of scientific studies and research of common interest.

Moreover, and in the light of the MoU, a joint committee was set up to put in place mechanisms for implementation, follow-up and direct supervision to discuss means of constructive cooperation and exchange of information between the two parties in the proposed areas of cooperation.

The medical study relates to a new procedure developed by Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai in collaboration with Moorfields Eye Hospital Abu Dhabi, to diagnose retinal problems in children and avoid the use of injections in the vein, which can be painful and frightening for children and worrying for parents.

The new procedure (known as oral fundus fluorescein angiography or oral FFA) involves using a special coloured dye solution mixed into a sweet drink, which is then drunk by the child. An ultra-widefield retinal imaging device then follows the flow of the dye into the eye and reveals the circulation of blood in the retina, which is a sensitive film at the back of the eye and plays a vital role in our vision. Traditionally, the coloured dye would have been injected into the child’s vein, causing discomfort.
The UAE study included 18 children who were imaged at Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai and Moorfields Eye Hospital Abu Dhabi, using this oral technique and advanced imaging device, with no side effects; and all of the patients have been treated successfully.

Mr. Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa Al Hammadi, CEO and Managing Director of United Eastern Medical Services in Abu Dhabi, the parent partner of Moorfields Eye Hospital Abu Dhabi, emphasized on the importance of this scientific study, which was conducted by the hospital’s physicians in Dubai in collaboration with Moorfields Eye Hospital Abu Dhabi. “The study opened new horizons to reach new techniques when it comes to the diagnosis of paediatric retina disorders, which makes UAE’s healthcare sector an active contributor with international medical and research centres in developing new diagnostic technologies and innovations. Our team were able to achieve this milestone with the support of the Department of Health in Abu Dhabi who has always supported medical research and innovations in the healthcare sector in Abu Dhabi.”

Commenting on the innovation and JAMA Ophthalmology publication, Declan Flanagan, Medical Director at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust said: “Retinal disorders are one of the most common causes of sight loss in children. It’s so important that we get clear images of the back of the eye so we can accurately diagnose conditions to ensure that we offer the most appropriate treatment. The study suggests that drink solution technique is effective and it will hopefully make hospital visits much more pleasant for our young patients as it will reduce the need for painful injections. The publication of the UAE study by JAMA Ophthalmology is a great honour for our Paediatric Ophthalmology team at Moorfields Dubai and Abu Dhabi. It demonstrates innovation and patient-focus healthcare in the UAE.”

Dr. Irfan Khan, Consultant Ophthalmologist with special interest in Paediatric eye conditions, Strabismus, Adult and Paediatric Cataract, Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai, added: “This study has demonstrated that the oral administration of the coloured dye with the addition of modern imaging works very well. Our team is delighted to have been recognised by JAMA Ophthalmology with the publication of the study. I would like to convey my special acknowledgment to Dr Igor Kozak who has been instrumental in the publication of our study.”

Dr Syed Ali, Consultant Paediatric Ophthalmologist at Moorfields Eye Hospital Abu Dhabi, “Since we started this technique, 30 children were imaged ranging from 4 – 16 years of age. Most of them were diagnosed with retina problems and were treated successfully. UAE is truly an innovative platform that allows physicians and other experts to explore new methodologies, innovations and more, and I am indeed proud to be practicing Paediatric Ophthalmology in UAE and specifically at Moorfields Eye Hospital Abu Dhabi.”

It is a common misperception that children do not have any eye diseases. In fact, they can have all the adult diseases. However, children are unable to explain details about their vision. This can make diagnosis difficult – but diagnosis is central to treating a medical problem.

The Retina is the most sensitive part of the eye and works like a photographic film. Whatever we see is imprinted on the retina and the brain helps us to see and understand those images.

The Moorfields Dubai study was a modification of an existing diagnostic tool in which the team used a state-of-the-art imaging device which gives a wide field image of the
retina. Traditionally, coloured dyes have been used and were injected directly into the vein – an uncomfortable experience for children.

Dr. Irfan Khan, Consultant Ophthalmologist at Moorfields Dubai, introduced the idea of using the dye as an oral solution mixed in a sweet drink. This proved very effective and very easy for the child patients. With the help of Dr. Syed Ali [Consultant Ophthalmologist], Dr. Darakhshanda Khurram [Consultant Ophthalmologist] and Dr. Igor Kozak [Consultant Ophthalmologist] Moorfields has now imaged more than 30 children without any side effects, and all underwent successful treatment.

About Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai
Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai (MEHD) is the first overseas branch of Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, the oldest and one of the largest centres for ophthalmic treatment, teaching and research in the world. Located at the Al Razi Medical Complex in Dubai Health Care City, the facility provides day case surgery and outpatient diagnostic and treatment services, for a variety of surgical and non-surgical eye conditions. MEHD will also raise standards for research and teaching in the region. MEHD is owned and managed by the NHS Foundation Trust, and maintains close links with London, to ensure that patients in the GCC receive the best eye care treatment in the world.

About Moorfields Eye Hospital Centre, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Moorfields Eye Hospital Centre in Abu Dhabi is a partnership between Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and United Eastern Medical Services (UEMedical), a leading Healthcare Development & Investment Company in Abu Dhabi. Moorfields Eye Hospital in London was founded over 200 years ago and is the oldest and one of the largest centres for ophthalmic treatment, teaching and research in the world. Moorfields Eye Hospital Centre in Abu Dhabi is the first Moorfields medical facility to be opened with a partner and the second in the UAE, following the opening of Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai in 2007. Moorfields Eye Hospital Centre in Abu Dhabi provides a comprehensive range of specialist ophthalmological services, including surgical and non-surgical treatments for common and complex eye conditions in children and adults, including strabismus, glaucoma, retina (medical and surgical), oculoplastics (including cosmetic surgery around the eye), corneal and refractive (vision corrective surgery). All treatments are carried out on a day case basis. A team of highly experienced and qualified consultant ophthalmologists, many of whom trained and practiced at Moorfields in London, is based permanently in the UAE to provide treatment and follow up to patients, supported by medical staff and customer services team, with advanced equipment and technology for the diagnosis and treatment of the most complex eye conditions.

For more information, visit www.moorfields.ae/abudhabi

Staffed with top-notch ophthalmologists most of whom trained or worked in Moorfields Eye Hospital in London, the patient was put under a treatment plan to restore her vision by multiple specialized physicians and surgeons in Abu Dhabi’s facility.”

Dr. Syed Mohammed Asad Ali, Consultant Ophthalmologist at Moorfields Eye Hospital in Abu Dhabi who performed several surgical procedures for the patient, said “for the last 2 years, the patient was not walking alone, as she couldn’t see her way. She was chair bound and needed help in her everyday activities. At beginning of the treatment plan, Dr. Yassir Abou-Rayyah, Consultant Ophthalmologist Surgeon at Moorfields Eye Hospital, conducted a surgical operation to improve her eyelid position.”

He added, “The patient had severe sight impairment due to scared corneal due to in growing eye lashes. She also had very dense cataracts in both eyes and long standing retinal detachment in one eye. At first, we removed her in growing eyelashes with a technique called electro epilation which reduces the chances of re-growth of ingrowing eye lashes. This procedure improved her cornea status and reduced the risk of infection. At the second stage, a cataract surgery with phacoemulsification (using ultrasound) with lens implantation under anesthesia by eye drops only was performed. This procedure was very challenging due to the status of the cataract and the general health of the patient.”

“Due to her heart condition, she was not fit for general anesthesia, as she was on high dose blood thinner and high risk of bleeding, so an injection of anesthesia over the eye was not ideal. Also, the type of cataract could have been treated by older techniques but due to her other medical conditions this was not the best option. Next day after surgery, the patient noticed great improvement in vision and started reading half of the eye test chart. She started crying with joy for seeing her son and family after many years.” Dr. Syed Ali added.

“Restoring our patient’s vision and improving their quality of life is truly rewarding for us all,” Dr. Syed concluded.

Her son, Mr. Saif Al Mansouri said, “We are grateful for Dr. Syed and the team of Moorfields Eye Hospital Abu Dhabi who have changed my mother’s life. She can walk now, independently finding her way, and planning to go on holidays.”

The Sense of Sight competition and exhibitions were designed to highlight and appreciate the gift of sight, to mark World Sight Day 2016. Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai and Moorfields Eye Hospital Centre Abu Dhabi invited the UAE professional design and arts community and budding young artists to share their new and original artworks, images, and photographs, in celebration of the sense of sight. Artists and photographers were asked to look at the world in its full three dimensions and think about how to express this visually and in a way that would intrigue viewers first by touch and then sight.

Moorfields received hundreds of entries comprising photographs, designs and paintings – portraits, landscapes and abstracts. Seven selected winners had their work produced by Moorfields in 3D, and displayed in unique tactile art shows which were free of charge and open to the public, held at Ayyam Gallery, Al Quoz in Dubai for three days (October 27-29), and Salwa Zeidan Gallery in Abu Dhabi, (November 5-6).

One of the winners – an engineer based in Dubai – had submitted his dramatic nightscape photograph of the Grand Mosque, one of the easier 3D renderings for visitors to feel their way around, given the iconic shape and form of the Mosque.

“We were thrilled with the response to the competition and with the reaction to both the shows,” said Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai’s Business Development and Marketing Director, Maha Aboughali. “Visitors were quick to enter into the spirit of the gallery exhibitions putting on the blindfold and testing their ability to feel and identify a 3D image; it was surprisingly difficult for them to feel the image and the appreciation for the sense of sight – the basic message of the entire project – was very clear. We all rely on our senses and the gift of sight is often taken for granted; we sometimes need reminding about the importance of good eyesight and to maintaining this vital sense.”

The Sense of Sight competition winners were:

• Dana Zarafili Zureikat – ‘Dancing Ballerina’
• Marcky Mark – ‘Girl with Leaf’
• Don Moraes – ‘The Beautiful Mosque’
• Siddharth Prem – ‘Reflections of a Gorgeous Sunset’
• Liza Ayash – ‘The Powerful Gaze’
• Dana Salmeh – ‘Soul Mirror’
• Samy Essam Nasr – ‘Wild Beauty’

For details visit www.facebook.com/MoorfieldsUAE

This World Sight Day – free yourself from wearing glasses and contact lenses with a quick and effective procedure

With more choices available, patients must choose their laser eye correction procedure carefully, advises Moorfields expert in the UAE

LASIK is a quick, safe, painless and effective surgical procedure to correct vision and is one of the most common surgeries, used to treat patients with near sightedness, far sightedness and astigmatism, by reshaping the cornea. ‘Lasik’ (or ‘Laser assisted in-situ keratomileusis’) has become routine. With the latest laser vision correction technology now available in the UAE, people have more choices in deciding how best to correct their specific vision problems whilst improving their overall vision, and need to choose carefully, according to Moorfields consultants.

Dr. Osama Giledi, Consultant Ophthalmologist and a Specialist in Cornea and Refractive Vision Correction Surgery at Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai and Moorfields Eye Hospital Centre Abu Dhabi, who has performed more than 23,000 laser eye correction surgeries, noted that laser corrective eye surgery (LASIK) can save a lifetime of costs – the regular cost of lenses, spectacle frames and the potentially even higher cost of sophisticated optical lenses. Add to this the freedom from wearing spectacle frames or inserting and maintaining contact lenses, and it’s a compelling option for anyone who has relied on vision aids for years. But patients need to choose the right surgeon, the best correction procedure, and clearly understand the potential results of surgery.

Moorfields Eye Hospitals in the UAE provide the most recent and advanced technologies used in vision correction surgery, and the standards of expertise are amongst the highest worldwide, with high success rates in surgeries such as these. Moorfields consultants carry out a pre assessment to determine suitability using state of the art equipment, before a recommendation is made as to whether vision correction surgery may be suitable, in addition to advising candidates on which type of surgery may achieve the best possible results.

Laser Refractive surgery is not just a simple, single procedure but refers to a group of procedures such as LASEK, TransPRK and IntraLase LASIK, which may be completed in a single session. LASIK surgery involves creating a thin superficial layer called a flap, traditionally made using a Microkeratome (surgical blade), through which the cornea is then reshaped. In recent years, Lasik surgery has advanced and become much safer by using an advanced Femtosecond Laser to create the flap but some surgery is still being done using the old Microkeratome Lasik.

Intralase LASIK for example, one of the procedures carried out by Moorfields in the UAE, is a highly advanced technology used for its safety and precision and this technique has been used by NASA and described by them as the ideal treatment for vision correction surgery for their astronauts and pilots.

“Moorfields is advising candidates to ensure they clearly understand the Lasik options, likely results and possible side-effects of vision correction surgery. It is important because patients should only have this surgery once in their lives. All laser vision correction surgeries work by reshaping the cornea but not all results are the same and patients should ensure they are choosing the latest and safest procedure available to deliver their desired results. It is also important to note that the surgery is only advised to those individuals who are 18 years of age or older,” notes Dr Osama.

Moorfields’ consultants undertake a comprehensive consultation, eye examination and assessment to ensure that both patient and consultant are in full agreement on the expectations of the procedure.

Vision correction surgery has been approved by the FDA in 1999, and Lasik is the most popular of these techniques, as over 400,000 Americans undergo this surgery annually. Technologies related to Lasik surgery, in addition to experience level of consultants performing such procedures, have evolved greatly over the past 17 years. 

In celebration of World Sight Day, Moorfields Eye Hospital in the UAE has launched a special offer for patients considering laser vision correction procedures, for LASEK, TransPRK and IntraLase LASIK surgery. To qualify for the special offer, candidates (minimum age 18) should book and attend an assessment by 31st October 2016 and the surgery should be carried out by December 31st, 2016. The offer is subject to the assessment results to determine suitability for the procedure, and terms & conditions.
Visit www.moorfields.ae for details

To mark World Sight Day 2016 in October, Moorfields Eye Hospital Centre Abu Dhabi and Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai have launched a competition in the UAE inviting the professional design and arts community and budding young artists to share their new and original artworks, images, and photographs, in celebration of the sense of sight. Selected winners will have their work produced by Moorfields in 3D, and displayed in galleries in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, in a unique tactile art show.

Photographs, designs and paintings – portraits, landscapes and abstracts – should be submitted to the Facebook page MoorfieldsUAE, using the hashtag #SenseOfSight and the winning artworks will be converted into tactile full 3-dimensional renderings and displayed in gallery exhibitions in Dubai and Abu Dhabi during October and November. Visitors to the exhibitions will be invited to view and ‘feel’ the 3D blank reverse of each artwork without seeing it first, before the full frontal visual image is revealed in 2D, highlighting the power of the gift of sight.

Ayyam Gallery, Al Quoz, (http://www.ayyamgallery.com/) will host the Sense of Sight exhibition in Dubai for three days, from 27-29 October, 2016; Salwa Zeidan Gallery (http://www.salwazeidangallery.com/) will host the gallery in Abu Dhabi, from 5-6 November, 2016.

Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai’s Business Development and Marketing Director, Maha Aboughali, comments: “We want to mark World Sight Day 2016 with a unique celebration of sight in the UAE and our Sense of Sight competition and tactile art exhibition will convey how much we rely on our different senses, especially the gift of sight; we hope that this exhibition helps people experience the importance of good eyesight, and to fully appreciate life and art, in addition to the importance of maintaining this vital sense. Artists and photographers should look at the world in its full three dimensions and think about how to express this visually and in a way that will intrigue viewers first by touch and then sight. The gallery shows will be free and open to the public and we look forward to welcoming everyone who is interested in this unique art experience.”

Professor Robert Scott, Medical Director, Moorfields Eye Hospital, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, explained: “International studies have confirmed the fact that 80% of vision related problems are manageable and treatable and we recommend regular checkups with ophthalmologists for those who suffer from chronic diseases that may affect vision, to help with early detection and diagnosis as well as treatment before it is too late.”

According to World Health Organisation estimates, 7 million adults and around half a million children lose their vision annually, and estimates that by 2020, this will impact the global economy and reduce global GDP (due to lower productivity) by more than 1 trillion dollars (over AED 3.5 trillion) per year.

Professor Scott added: “International research and studies are currently focusing on the use of stem cells in the treatment of visual impairment and in the summer of 2015, British researchers from ‘The London Project to Cure Blindness’ completed a breakthrough surgery to restore the vision of a 60-year old woman suffering from age related Macular Degeneration, by implanting stem cells in her eye. The potential is very exciting.”

For details visit www.facebook.com/MoorfieldsUAE

The opening ceremony was attended by UK Minister of State for Health, Alastair Burt, HMA British Ambassador to the UAE, Philip Parham and representatives of the Health Authority Abu Dhabi, joined by John Pelly, Chief Executive of Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, Mariano Gonzalez, Managing Director of Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai, Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Managing Director of UEMedical and Majd Abu Zant, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of UEMedical.

During his tour of the centre, HE Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development, said: “We have opened today in Abu Dhabi Moorfields Eye Hospital Centre, one of the oldest Ophthalmology hospitals in the world, founded two hundred years ago in London. This hospital will add great value to the exceptional medical services in the United Arab Emirates, offering unmatchable ophthalmological medical services with innovative medical techniques. It will promote the country as a global commercial and tourism destination and demonstrate the confidence that international institutions have in investing in the UAE. We wish the centre success and applaud UEMedical for this fruitful cooperation between a UAE based company and one of the oldest and the best medical institutions in the world.” He added, “This cooperation between local and international organisations was made possible due to our wise leaders, HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and HH Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces. These leaders have provided opportunities for world-class medical services to become available to both UAE nationals and residents of our beloved country.”

“Almost 300 million people around the world have some kind of visual impairment. Countries must promote eye health and raise awareness of the importance of prevention and control of so many ophthalmic disorders which, unfortunately, have significant human and socioeconomic consequences to society. I am happy to be here today and witness such an effort made by the UAE and the UK to do just that”, said Alastair Burt, UK Minister of State for Health.

Adding to the significance of the Moorfields Eye Hospital Centre in Abu Dhabi, the British Ambassador commented: “I know that Moorfields will live up to its name and long track record of ophthalmic excellence in London and Dubai, and will improve and strengthen the quality of eye care services in Abu Dhabi. I am truly honoured to see this happening through a partnership established between a local company, led by an inspirational Emirati, and one of London’s finest institutions – Moorfields”.

Moorfields Eye Hospital Centre Abu Dhabi, located in Marina Village, will offer the same comprehensive range of specialist ophthalmology services and surgical procedures available at Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai, the first overseas branch to open its doors back in 2007.

Over 7,000 individuals who previously had to commute to Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai for ophthalmic care will now be able to find surgical and non-surgical treatments for common and complex eye conditions in children and adults, including strabismus (squint), glaucoma, retina (medical and surgical), oculoplastic (including cosmetic surgery around the eye), corneal and refractive (vision corrective surgery), right here in the UAE capital, on a day care basis.

All consultations and treatments will be performed by highly experienced and qualified consultant ophthalmologists, many of whom trained and practiced at Moorfields in London. Moorfields Eye Hospital Centre will offer the most advanced equipment and technology for the diagnosis and treatment of the most complex eye conditions, enabling them to map, assess, manage progression and treat all eye disorders.

Moorfields Eye Hospitals in the UAE are currently the largest eye specialty hospitals in the country with a team of 15 consultant ophthalmologists, including six retinal consultant ophthalmologists focusing on medical retinal diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, one of the most common complications caused by diabetes. The services covered at the hospital are also supported by optometry and orthoptic assessments.

“It is an honour to partner with Moorfields Eye Hospital, a true centre of excellence in ophthalmology, to bring world-class eye care to the Abu Dhabi community. This is yet another important step UEMS takes in line with the UAE leaders’ vision to provide the people of the UAE with the best healthcare facilities, raising the bar of medical services in the country to international standards”, said Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, CEO and Managing Director of United Eastern Medical Services.

Commenting on the opening of the new centre, John Pelly, CEO of Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, added: “We are very pleased to see that Moorfields now has a home in the UAE capital. One of our aims is to provide care where patients need it the most, and based on our eight years of experience in the UAE so far; we hope that this new centre will be more accessible to these patients, and that our world renowned expertise will allow us to make significant contribution to the local medical field, in treatment, education and research, working with local authorities, and further supporting the development of healthcare in the UAE, to help better serve the local population needs”.

About Moorfields:

Moorfields Eye Hospital, located at Abu Dhabi Marina Village, was established through a partnership between Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and United Eastern Medical Services LLC (UEMedical), a leading privately-owned Healthcare Development & Investment Company in Abu Dhabi.

Moorfields Eye Hospital in Abu Dhabi provides a comprehensive range of specialist ophthalmic services, including surgical and non-surgical treatments for common and complex eye conditions in children and adults, including strabismus, glaucoma, retina (medical and surgical), oculoplastic (including cosmetic surgery around the eye), corneal and refractive (vision corrective surgery).

All treatments are carried out on a day case basis by a team of highly experienced and qualified consultant ophthalmologists, many of whom trained and practiced at Moorfields in London, the oldest and one of the largest centres for ophthalmic treatment, teaching and research in the world, founded over 200 years ago.

The ophthalmologists, based permanently in the UAE, provide treatment and follow-up to patients, supported by medical staff and customer services team, with advanced equipment and technology for the diagnosis and treatment of the most complex eye conditions.

Moorfields Eye Hospital Centre is affiliated with most of the major health insurance providers.

For more information please visit www.moorfields.ae or www.uems.ae

Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, CEO of the United Eastern Medical Services in Abu Dhabi said, “As we see more premature babies at Danat Al Emarat Hospital, the need to implement such a program is high. The agreement will be fully implemented within the coming three months, and includes examining the eyes of all neonates at Danat Al Emarat Hospital’s Neonate Intensive Care Unit (NICU) following the latest international standards. Examinations will be carried on by Moorfields ophthalmologists in Abu Dhabi and also visiting consultants from Moorfields London, who will visit the hospital as part of the program.”

He also explained that advanced high-tech equipment will be purchased for the eyes examination and the timely diagnosis of ROP cases which is essential to identify an immediate treatment plan and to avoid the occurrence of any complications. He pointed out that ophthalmologists from Moorfields Eye Hospital Abu Dhabi have actually started the first phase of the agreement, where initial basic screening is being done. Through this agreement, the aim is to improve neonates care, keep newborns safe and healthy by protecting them from various possible diseases through early diagnosis and the avoidance of complications.

Professor Robert Scott, Medical Director and Retinal Surgery and Vitreous Consultant in Moorfields Eye Hospital Abu Dhabi, seconded from Moorfields Eye Hospital in London, stated, “as part of the first phase of the agreement, Moorfields ophthalmologists have already screened 15 newborn premature babies at Danat Al Emarat Hospital, and the results showed that all 15 babies were in good health and not suffering from any problems in their retina.”

He explained that during the 31st week of pregnancy, the retina is fully developed in the fetus inside the uterus. And in case the baby was born before the 31st week of pregnancy, or weighed less than 1500 gm after birth, his retina must be examined to ensure it is healthy. He pointed out that if a baby is born before the 31st week of gestation, he is more prone to developing ROP, which leads to complications like blindness if the treatment was delayed.

Prof. Scott said, “When the agreement is fully implemented in few months, all premature newborns born before the 31st week of pregnancy, will undergo this examination by ophthalmologists from Moorfields Eye Hospital in the Neonate Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Danat Al Emarat Hospital in Abu Dhabi, noting that in case a baby was diagnosed with ROP condition, the baby will be treated early at the hospital’s NICU or Operating Theatre using the latest technologies of laser therapy focusing on the complicated part of the newborn’s retina. The therapy session lasts for 45 minutes, and treatment may continue for several days.”

“Infants suffering from ROP are more prone to developing eye problems in the future, including myopia, glaucoma, strabismus, amblyopia and others. In case of early diagnosis of this condition, treatment should follow in a timely manner and thus complications are avoided,” Dr Scott added.

He said, “in case ROP was diagnosed late, the newborn might need complicated surgery. If the newborn was not diagnosed within the first 1-2 weeks after birth, 5% of the cases develop retinal detachment, which leads to blindness.” He stated that it is very important that the parent demands his/her newborn’s eyes to be examined before leaving the hospital in case of preterm birth, or in case the newborn weighed around 1500 gm or less, to avoid developing retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

According to international statistics, 15 million babies are born preterm every year, and this number is rising. Retinopathy of prematurity is usually more severe in very premature babies and if they are given too-high level of oxygen. If not recognized and treated, this can result in lifelong visual impairment or blindness.

Moorfields Eye Centre will open in Abu Dhabi towards the end of 2014, and will offer the same comprehensive range of high quality clinical services and day case surgical procedures offered at Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai. Services offered at the Moorfields Eye Centre in Abu Dhabi will include paediatric ophthalmology, strabismus, glaucoma, retina – medical and surgical, oculoplastics (cosmetic surgery around the eye), corneal, and refractive (vision corrective surgery). Since October 2013, Ophthalmology Consultants from Moorfields have been providing outpatient services at UEMedical’s HealthPlus Diabetes & Endocrinology Centre in Abu Dhabi.

Moorfields opened its purpose-built hospital in Dubai in 2007 – the first overseas branch of Moorfields Eye Hospital in London – and which has since treated more than 31,000 patients, some of whom have come from Abu Dhabi. The hospital has a permanent team of 10 specialist consultants and has confirmed its status as a centre of excellence in treatment, training and research.

UEMedical owns and operates a network of specialty centres and family clinics across Abu Dhabi under its ‘HealthPlus’ brand, and will soon open the first specialized Women and Children’s Hospital, Danat Al Emarat, in Abu Dhabi.

Mr. Mohamad Ali Al Shorfa Al Hammadi, CEO & Managing Director of United Eastern Medical Services commented – “Such an agreement with world renowned Ophthalmic Center of Excellence, Moorfields Eye Hospital, represents another step for UEMedical in the realization of the UAE Leaders vision to provide the people of the UAE with the best healthcare facilities comparable to international standards. It also comes in line with the Health Authority – Abu Dhabi strategic priorities to improve clinical outcomes through partnering with world renowned partners. The new Moorfields Eye Centre in Abu Dhabi will complement our other outpatient centers. We develop integrated healthcare systems that raise the bar for medical excellence. The New Moorfields Eye Centre in Abu Dhabi will be one of very few facilities in the emirate that are fully specialized in eye care services. Through partnering with Moorfields we plan on bridging the gap in the current eye care services available in the Emirate”

Commenting on the new agreement and centre, Mr. John Pelly, CEO of Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are very pleased to sign this partnership agreement with UEMedical and to bring Moorfields’ world class eye care services to the community of Abu Dhabi. Our mission always remains constant, which is to focus on treating patients, teaching and research and this new centre will aim to make a significant contribution in all three areas, in Abu Dhabi. The new centre is an important part of our expansion strategy for the UAE and will complement Moorfields’ mission in Dubai and hopefully replicate the hospital’s outstanding success in serving the community and supporting the development of healthcare in the UAE.”

About Moorfields Eye Centre

Moorfields Eye Centre (MEC) in Abu Dhabi is a joint centre partnership created by Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UEMedical in Abu Dhabi. Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is the oldest and one of the largest centres for ophthalmic treatment, teaching and research in the world. Located in Abu Dhabi, MEC will provide day case surgery and outpatient diagnostic and treatment services, for a variety of surgical and non-surgical eye conditions.

About UEMedical 

United Eastern Medical Services (UEMedical) was formed in 2005 with the aim of raising the standard of healthcare service delivery and has since become Abu Dhabi’s leading privately owned Healthcare Development and Investment Company. UEMedical possesses the breadth of experience, the network of expertise and the financial backing to assume a prominent role in a complex and challenging healthcare environment, aiming to differentiate themselves on the basis of medical excellence, innovation and an unparalleled level of customer service. UEMedical will develop and manage an integrated healthcare delivery system that comprises world-class specialty hospitals and outpatient facilities throughout the UAE. Its portfolio of projects is coming together to leverage the combined talent and resources of a world class hospital, 6 specialty centers and 14 family clinics to create an integrated healthcare delivery system across Abu Dhabi and the UAE. Along with its well-established network of outpatient specialty and family health canter branded as HealthPlus, UEMedical will see the opening of the 250-bed Danat Al Emarat Women & Children’s Hospital in Abu Dhabi City (2014). By partnering with a number of internationally renowned healthcare providers, UEMedical also ensures that international standards in patient care delivery and best practices are put in place. For more information, please visit www.uems.ae

Media contacts:

Jon Walsh
WPR
Dubai
M: 00971 50 4588610
E: [email protected]

Rania Akkela
Marketing & Communications Manager, UEMedical
M: 00971 56 6780665
T: 00971 2 6266805
F: 00971 2 6266897
E: [email protected]

Moorfields already has a successful, purpose-built hospital in Dubai, which has been operating for six years and treated more than 27,000 patients. UEMedical owns and operates a network of specialty centers and family clinics across Abu Dhabi under its ‘HealthPlus’ brand, and is soon to open the first specialized Women and Children’s Hospital (Danat Al Emarat) in Abu Dhabi.

Commenting on the Agreement, Mariano Gonzalez, Managing Director of Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai, stated that the Board of Directors of Moorfields in the UK is keen to explore the Abu Dhabi market, “Abu Dhabi is an important part of our expansion strategy for the UAE. Moorfields Dubai will remain our lead centre of excellence in the UAE and we recently announced an MOU with Dubai Healthcare City to expand our research and teaching activities there, which are important elements of our overall mission. The last six years in Dubai have proven to be very successful and we aim to build on this firm foundation and replicate the success in Abu Dhabi for the benefit of the community there. We have been treating patients in Abu Dhabi and believe we can provide a new option to provide the complete range of clinical services delivered locally, to the global standards set by Moorfields. We would hope to begin operations in Abu Dhabi in some form, during 2014.”

Speaking after the signing ceremony, Mr. Mohamad Ali Al Shorafa Al Hammadi, CEO & Managing Director of UEMedical and Chairman of HealthPlus, said, “We are excited to be collaborating with one of the world’s leading institutes – Moorfields Eye Hospital London, and to explore the opportunity of establishing and operating an Eye Hospital under the Moorfields brand in the Capital of the UAE.” Mr. Al Shorafa added, “We will examine the clinical services best suited for our market that would be consistent with the high standards, procedures and outstanding clinical outcomes for which Moorfields is known worldwide. Such an agreement represents another step for UEMedical in the realization of the UAE leaders’ vision to provide the people of the UAE with the best healthcare facilities comparable to international standards.”

Mr. Majd Abu Zant, CEO of HealthPlus also stated, “We are pleased to announce that a team of Consultants from Moorfields Eye Hospital are now leading the Ophthalmology Department in our recently inaugurated HealthPlus Diabetes & Endocrinology Center in Abu Dhabi. Through this partnership, Moorfields doctors will work collaboratively with our multidisciplinary team to deliver comprehensive care for adults and children with diabetes.” Mr Abu Zant further commented, “In addition to treating patients with diabetes, Moorfields doctors will also provide much needed Glaucoma, Pediatric and Aviation Ophthalmology services at the HealthPlus Diabetes & Endocrinology Center in Abu Dhabi.”

About Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai

Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai (MEHD) is the first overseas branch of Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, the oldest and one of the largest centres for ophthalmic treatment, teaching and research in the world. Located at the Al Razi Medical Complex in Dubai Health Care City, the facility provides day case surgery and outpatient diagnostic and treatment services, for a variety of surgical and non-surgical eye conditions. MEHD will also raise standards for research and teaching in the region. MEHD is owned and managed by the NHS Foundation Trust, and maintains close links with London, to ensure that patients in the GCC receive the best eye care treatment in the world.

About UEMedical 

United Eastern Medical (UEMedical) was formed in 2005 with the aim of raising the standard of healthcare service delivery and has since become Abu Dhabi’s leading privately owned Healthcare Development and Investment Company. UEMedical possesses the breadth of experience, the network of expertise and the financial backing to assume a prominent role in a complex and challenging healthcare environment, aiming to differentiate themselves on the basis of medical excellence, innovation and an unparalleled level of customer service. UEMedical will develop and manage an integrated healthcare delivery system that comprises world-class specialty hospitals and outpatient facilities throughout the UAE. Its portfolio of projects is coming together to leverage the combined talent and resources of a world class hospital, 6 specialty centers and 14 family clinics to create an integrated healthcare delivery system across Abu Dhabi and the UAE. Along with its well-established network of outpatient specialty and family health canter branded as HealthPlus, UEMedical will see the opening of the 250-bed Danat Al Emarat Women & Children’s Hospital in Abu Dhabi City (2014). By partnering with a number of internationally renowned healthcare providers, UEMedical also ensures that international standards in patient care delivery and best practices are put in place. For more information, please visit www.uems.ae

Media contacts:

Jon Walsh
WPR Limited
Dubai
M: 00971 50 4588610
E: [email protected]
Issued on behalf of Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai by WPR.

Rania Akkela
Marketing & Communications Manager, UEMedical
M: 00971 56 6780665
T: 00971 2 6266805
F: 00971 2 6266897
E: [email protected]