An overview of the UAE healthcare system
The healthcare system in the UAE is known to be among the finest in the world. According to Expatica, there are 181 doctors per 100,000 residents. Medical tourism forms a vital part in their economic growth, with the medical treatment cost depending on immigration status. The Ministry of Health and Prevention has the sole responsibility of overseeing the whole country’s healthcare system. UAE is equipped with state of the art facilities and centers. Their health centers also have quality healthcare workers to provide only top notch care to their patients. It’s no wonder that people travel from all over the world to seek treatment in the UAE. In 2020 alone, it is projected that 500000 people will travel to the UAE for treatment.
You do not have to a UAE citizen to access healthcare. Private healthcare is, however, more expensive. If you are not a citizen, consider applying for the national public health card through MOHAP to afford private health care at a 50% discount as UAE nationals.
Substance abuse, stigma in the UAE context
For many years, the UAE legal system considered substance abuse a behavioral, social problem rather than a health problem. In fact, the harsh treatment of substance abusers would prevent them from seeking addiction treatment from rehabilitation centers. The social consequences of drug addiction often resulted in families’ disintegration, increased crime rate, and reduced productivity. The United Arab emirate’ approach to fighting substance abuse involved criminalizing addiction and substance abuse.
An update of the UAE federal anti-narcotics law, in 2016, had a friendlier approach allowing drug addicts to seektreatment for substance use disorder. First-time drug offenders are now not prosecuted but referred to addiction treatment centers. Where relatives to the drug addict refer him to the prosecutor, they are not charged in a law court.
In the UAE society, individuals are tied to their families. The family is a primary source of financial, emotional, and social support. Mental health issues and substance abuse are considered a weakness and a disgrace to the family. Though equipped with an excellent health system, UAE, like other countries globally, faces its own unique set of challenges in fighting drug addiction. But what are the available addiction treatment programs available?
Types of treatment for addiction in the UAE
Like any other country, substance abuse treatment is offered in two categories in UAE; inpatient treatment and outpatient treatment. While each of these is focussed onaddiction cure, each has its unique benefits and attributes. Inpatient rehab treatments are more intensive and are designed to treat severe addictions. Outpatient is less intensive in nature and is often part-time programs. The patient must be able to decide on an appropriate plan.
Outpatient treatment program
This is an ideal program for people who still want to pursue their careers or family life while seeking treatment. The outpatient treatment program offers a flexible schedule to allow the patient to live in everyday life. This program varies in intensity, services offered, and format. It generally focuses on counseling, building a support system, and educating the addict. The outpatient program is offered in three categories
- Day programs
These have the highest level of care and structure. The patients commit to addiction therapy options such as group counseling, music therapy, biofeedback, among others. These programs require a considerable time commitment.
- Intensive outpatient programs
This program establishes a treatment plan with defined milestones put in place. Intensive outpatient programs require multiple sessions for a few hours, where group therapy and counseling sessions are conducted.
- Continuing care
These are ongoing support resources to ensure commitment to being sober. Support may focus on a particular area of recovery.
Benefits of outpatient rehab
- It is affordable since you live at home
- It offers flexibility as the schedule works with your schedule.
- You have access to family support.
Inpatient treatment program
The inpatient program focuses on getting well without the distractions of everyday activities. Counselors, psychologists all meet with the patient individually or in a group setting to assist in inpatient recovery. The first substance abuse treatment offered is chemical dependence treatment. Addiction specialists and physicians monitor patients’ vital organs as drugs exit their system. The medical provided helps to prevent relapse by lessening cravings and the withdrawal symptoms. It is essential to note that some withdrawal symptoms can be fatal and are best managed by a medical professional.
Benefits of the inpatient program
- Higher success rate
While addiction treatment’s success depends on the individual, inpatient rehab patients report higher rates of recoveries as opposed to inpatient.
- Safety
Withdrawal symptoms can be unpleasant. Such drugs as meth have symptoms such as psychosis or depression. Having a medical practitioner around ensures safety in the procedure.
Whatever program you choose,rehabilitation of substance abuse patients is crucial to the social well being, and the patient themselves.