jamesyos

Hi Guys.

I'm moving over to Dubai in the winter and wondered if anyone can shed some light on the situation in UAE. I'm having trouble with info from guides on the internet...

I have a a few illnesses and need regular check ups to keep me functioning and some preknowledge on the whole healthcare system would be very reassuring. Any information would be greatly recieved! cheers in advance...

Do Gp's work in a similar way to in the UK? With clinics and health centres or do they all work from the hospitals?

Are medications as easy to get hold of out there? Are Pharmacies easily accessible or are there any delivery services for getting meds quickly?

Are meds cheaper/more expensive (in real terms) than back in the UK?

Whats the deal with repeat meds? Can I just call the doc and he'll send me a prescription in the post or post some out, or do i need to revisit him/her?

Any general things i should know about the set up of doctors for normal appointments, none hospital visits, would be appreciated! cheers guys

Madam Medusa

well firstly, it's all private so you choose which Doctor you want to go to and you have to pay, same for the medication. You can get loads of things here without a prescription, and there are defo 24 hour pharmacies...think they may deliver.

Don't know about specific medicines though...

MM, xx

jebelaligardener

The one thing to be careful of is what medication you bring here with you. Codeine-based meds are a problem (see news article here

Some meds you would expect to be prescription only are over the counter in Dubai (contraceptive pill for example), others may not be available at all. Depending on your ailment it may be prudent to contact a specialist clinic in Dubai for advice on medication etc.

jamesyos

cheers guys, all good info...