The city's crude birth rate is 13.1 per 1,000 population, with the population increasing at a rate of 1.2 per 100 people. Crude mortality rate is at 1.4 per 1,000 populations.
Topping the list for primary cause of death is circulatory and respiratory system diseases. Deaths related to circulatory system illnesses account for a huge 41% of non-communicable diseases related mortalities.
However, a remarkable increase in traffic and work-related injuries had also been diagnosed, with 25,962 (which is about 21%) cases of inpatients in Dubai's public hospitals.
Probably due to lifestyle changes or environmental factors, the city's cancer-related deaths are also gathering numbers. It accounts for 16.1% of deaths. The leading kind of cancer is malignant neoplasm found in the digestive system.
The majority of diagnoses made for expatriates are through private sector health care providers. 90.78% of cases of non-communicable diseases among expats were consulted through non-DOHMS (Department of Health and Medical Service) hospitals or clinics.
The elderly population in the city is also increasing at 10.3% annually, one of the highest rates of growth for that sector in the world. This causes an increased pressure to improve the health care system in Dubai.
Expatriates compose the largest number of those diagnosed with infectious diseases, averaging 58.6% of cases. Two thirds (or 64.9%) of the reported cases are chicken pox.
The city continues to expand its health care facilities by improving the public health care sector and empowering the private sector.
Dubai currently has five government managed hospitals and 17 private hospitals are in operation. There are also 16 government health care and 639 private medical clinics.
Health care employees are also increasing in number. Dubai has 3,530 physicians, 4890 nurses, and 1370 dentists.
Health Care for Expats
Health care in Dubai is known for its wide availability and world-class quality, characteristics that expatriates in the city are relieved to experience in their chosen destination.
Because of its huge expat population, more often than not, medical personnel are also internationally trained professionals. Medical facilities are also advanced and widely available in the city's hospitals and clinics.
Public health care is generally available for expatriates at a lower cost in public hospitals. The city of Dubai does not have any obligatory state or employer- contribution health care premiums.
Expats can use emergency health care and public health facilities, but availing yourself of international health care insurance would be best if you want more comprehensive medical coverage.
Although government hospitals also offer quality health care and great facilities, privately-run hospitals prove to be preferred by most expatriates and their employers.
These hospitals generally offer single room accommodations and prices depend on the kind of facilities you sign up for. Bigger and more luxurious hospitals like The American Hospital are generally more expensive.
Emergency health care is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at public hospitals in Dubai. Ambulance services can also be called upon, however not with the same efficiency as you'd experience in Western or European countries.
You may dial 999 to call an ambulance or for most emergency situations.
Doctor's appointments in public health clinics are normally made at least 24 to 72 hours before the desired date either by phone or in person. However, depending on the purpose of the visit (like an emergency or critical situation), a same-day appointment can be arranged.
Dubai has 264 pharmacies, where a variety of medicines are available over the counter. Note however that the Ministry of Health has banned the use of tranquillizers, anti-depressants, and even sleeping pills, and these are only available to those with a prescription from a local doctor and a letter explaining the need for such.
Most pharmacies are open Saturdays to Thursdays from 9.30am to 1pm and from 4.30 to 8.30pm or later, while those in hospitals are open 24 hours.
More Expat Resources
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