On the occasion of World Diabetes Day observed on November 14, Department of Health-Abu Dhabi (DoH) Chairman Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Hamed issued a statement, stressing that the health and safety of patients with diabetes are the top priorities of the authorities. He noted that DoH authorities are making all efforts to ensure that patients with diabetes are able to avail of sustainable and world-class healthcare services while checking and monitoring their medical conditions and treatment procedures in a secure environment.

In the statement, Al Hamed asserted that DoH has implemented every preventive and precautionary measure to protect the health and safety of diabetics amid the ongoing pandemic crisis, considering the risk of complications due to the virus.

Under the guidance of DoH, the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre launched a healthcare programme that will benefit more than 31,000 patients suffering from diabetes. Al Hamed explained that the programme has been formulated to help individuals with chronic diseases and senior citizens during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, mobile clinics will safeguard their health and wellbeing by assisting them in accessing various medical services, including laboratory tests and routine health check-ups for people with diabetes.

"The Remote Healthcare Platform is one of the tools that has been launched as part of our ongoing efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19 and maintain the safety and well-being of all members of society, with a focus on those with chronic diseases such as diabetes," Al Hamed said in the statement.

He added that since the launch of the Remote Healthcare Platform in April, more than 1,300 appointments have been made for patients with diabetes in order to ensure continuity of their treatment plans, availing prescriptions online and access to preliminary medical diagnostic services.

Furthermore, Al Hamed asserted that this year's World Diabetes Day is honouring the nursing staff who have played a crucial role and continue to contribute to the betterment of the lives of patients with diabetes. He went on to highlight the high-quality premium healthcare services provided by the nursing staff in Abu Dhabi's healthcare sector that proved successful in maintaining the health and wellbeing of the patients.

In conclusion, he stated that diabetes is mainly associated with the lifestyle of individuals and can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle which will include maintaining a balanced diet and ensuring regular physical exercise.

"By doing so, members of the community contribute to achieving DoH’s vision towards a healthier Abu Dhabi." Al Hamed added in conclusion.