UAE residents without medical insurance bear financial burden

UAE Residents Without Medical Insurance

 The cost of healthcare in the UAE poses a significant financial burden for residents, especially those without medical insurance. Without coverage, individuals face steep expenses for doctor consultations, medical tests, and medications, leading to strained budgets and financial challenges.

Ahmed Ateeq, a businessman residing in Deira, shares his experience of falling ill without medical insurance. Despite having all other documentation in place, Ahmed found himself in a difficult situation when he had to bear the expenses of healthcare in December last year. The cost of consultation, medical tests, and medications amounted to around Dh600, highlighting the initial financial strain.

Unfortunately, Ahmed's ordeal did not end there. In February, he fell ill again and had to incur additional expenses of Dh800 for medical treatment. Within just three months, Ahmed spent over Dh1,400 on healthcare without insurance coverage, emphasizing the financial burden faced by individuals in similar situations.

For many UAE residents like Ahmed, the absence of health insurance leaves them grappling with the burden of healthcare expenses out of pocket. Abu Aiza, a resident of Sharjah, expresses his concerns about the lack of insurance coverage for his family. He narrates a recent incident when his daughter fell ill, leading to significant financial strain due to consultation fees, medical tests, and medication expenses.

In response to these challenges, some residents resort to alternative strategies to cope with healthcare expenses. Community clinics offering subsidised or free medical services become a lifeline for individuals seeking affordable healthcare options. Shahbaz Khan, a resident of Sharjah, relies on community clinics where treatments are offered at considerably lower rates, making healthcare more accessible for individuals without insurance coverage.

Additionally, some residents turn to alternative forms of medicine, such as homeopathy and ayurveda, for treatment. These traditional healing methods provide an alternative approach to conventional medicine and are perceived as more affordable options for individuals without insurance coverage. Rajesh Vettakamul, a resident of Sharjah, emphasizes his belief in natural healing practices and shares his experience of using herbal remedies to address health issues, aligning with his commitment to promoting overall well-being through holistic approaches.

In conclusion, the absence of medical insurance coverage presents significant challenges for UAE residents, leading to financial strain and limited access to essential healthcare services. While community clinics and alternative medicine offer some relief, addressing the root cause of inadequate insurance coverage remains crucial to ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all residents in the UAE.