Emirates Health Services Highlights Pivotal Role of Family Doctors in Strengthening Community Health

Marking World Family Doctor Day, observed globally on May 19, Emirates Health Services reaffirmed the central role family physicians play in establishing an integrated and sustainable healthcare system rooted in preventive care, early intervention, and universal health coverage for all community members.

In line with this commitment, EHS provides a comprehensive primary care model that prioritizes families through an extensive network of health centers strategically located near residential communities nationwide. This approach reinforces equitable access to care while delivering sustainable, high-quality health services.

Dr. Kareema Alraesi, Director of the Primary Healthcare Department at EHS, emphasized that investing in family medicine is a direct investment in community health and healthcare system sustainability. She stated: “Family physicians are the cornerstone of empowering families to manage their health, address risks proactively, and enhance quality of life. On this occasion, we reiterate EHS’s unwavering commitment to advancing the health of Emirati families and society at large by supporting specialized family medicine professionals, expanding primary care services, and developing preventive initiatives. These efforts align with the nation’s vision to build a healthy society that has a high quality of life.”

EHS adopts an advanced primary healthcare model, with its centers offering a wide range of services spanning prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation for all age groups. A key focus lies in managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma through regular follow-ups, personalized treatment plans, and health education programs. EHS also prioritizes early detection initiatives for chronic diseases and cancers, which directly improve recovery rates and enable effective intervention during early stages.

To align with digital transformation and future-proof healthcare delivery, EHS provides smart health services, including virtual clinics for remote consultations, home medication delivery, and home healthcare for seniors, ensuring continuous medical and psychological support in safe environments.

Notable initiatives launched by EHS’s Primary Healthcare Department include the Adolescent Clinic, which offers integrated physical, mental, and social health programs for youth aged 10–19, fostering sustainable healthy lifestyles. Additionally, EHS addresses community needs during family formation stages through premarital screening and counseling services, including advanced genetic testing covering 570 genes associated with over 840 medical conditions. This proactive approach empowers couples to make informed, health-conscious decisions for building resilient families.