Latest news with #Medcare
Khaleej Times
3 days ago
- Health
- Khaleej Times
'His positivity was half the cure': Athletes remember Dubai-based doctor's care, gentle nature
Patients, athletes, and colleagues are mourning the loss of Dr Anwar Sadath, a well-known orthopedic surgeon in Dubai, who passed away earlier this week at the age of 49. Dr Sadath was from Kerala and was known for his gentle nature, ethical practice, and deep care for his patients. He was a specialist at Medcare Orthopaedics and Spine Hospital and had over 18 years of experience in treating sports injuries, fractures, and trauma cases. For the past 14 years, he was a part of the Aster DM Healthcare group. Among those deeply affected by his passing is Indian international handball player Vipin Kumar, who had been receiving treatment from Dr Sadath for many years. 'He was more than just a doctor to me. He focused on healing my injuries naturally, through strengthening exercises and avoiding unnecessary surgeries. Whenever I got hurt, he gave me the confidence to recover and keep going. He always reminded me that we were in this together, it was a team effort,' said Vipin. Vipin had recently returned from an international handball tournament in Taipei and had met Dr Sadath just days before his death. 'He told me he was going on a vacation soon. He was so happy and proud every time I brought home a medal. I even spoke about him during a recent radio interview, thanking him for the role he played in my success,' he added. Another patient, speaking to Khaleej Times, said Dr Sadath treated everyone like family. 'He wasn't just a doctor; he was a well-wisher. He cared from the heart. He would never suggest unnecessary procedures, and his first step was always to calm us down and lift our spirits before starting any treatment. That positivity alone was half the cure.' Known for his humility, Dr Sadath had a strong connection with many athletes in the UAE. His colleagues described him as a man with a pure heart who always put his patients first. 'He had a gift for making people feel at ease. You walked into his clinic with pain and walked out with hope,' said a colleague. Dr Sadath is survived by his three children. His sudden passing has left a void in the medical and sports community. He is being laid to rest after Asr prayer at Al Qusais Cemetery, with many of his patients and well-wishers attending the funeral.
Web Release
5 days ago
- Health
- Web Release
Bringing the Hospital Home: Medcare revolutionises home healthcare by bringing advanced medical procedures at patients' doorsteps
By Editor_wr On Jul 17, 2025 Medcare Hospitals and Medical Centres, a premium healthcare provider under Aster DM Healthcare, has redefined the benchmark for in-home medical care in the UAE with the launch of its advanced home care services. In addition to the standard doctor and nurse visits, Medcare's advanced homecare services now allow patients to receive more sophisticated care procedures, such as sleep consulting for newborn and toddlers, geriatric care, chronic disease management and capsule endoscopy, from the comfort of their own homes. After successfully launching its homecare program during the pandemic five years ago, Medcare Hospitals and Medical Centres has upgraded its home care services to align with the demands of a growing population. According to Dubai Health Authority (DHA), estimates show an expected increase in the proportion of the elderly in the UAE from 6% to 29% by 2050 [1]. Elderly individuals and those with chronic conditions are seeking care that is both easy to access and designed to meet their specific needs, potentially keeping them out of the hospital. Since 2020, Medcare has been bringing top notch medical services right into the homes of patients, covering everything from postnatal care to lab tests and physiotherapy. Through their network of 300 skilled DHA-certified professionals, including doctors, nurses and therapies, Medcare is now setting new benchmarks in home medical care for people in UAE, by delivering hospital and clinic level procedures at the homes of patients, which would prove to be convenient for the elderly population. Commenting on the new introductions, Dr. Shanila Laiju, Group CEO of Medcare Hospitals & Medical Centres, said, 'Medcare is shaping a future where healthcare is as accessible and seamless as possible. Our expanded home care services mark an important milestone forward in transforming how healthcare is delivered in the region'. Dr. Shanila Laiju also, stated, 'By expanding our home care services, we are reimagining how healthcare can be delivered, meeting patients where they are and ensuring their comfort and convenience without compromising on quality. Our goal is to bring cutting-edge procedures and comprehensive care directly into the home, transforming the way we think about health and wellness in the UAE.' Mrs. Akanksha Dicholkar, the Group Chief Nursing Officer of Medcare Hospitals & Medical Centres, shared her perspective on the enhanced home care services, saying, 'We understand that for many patients, especially those with chronic conditions or those who are elderly, the comfort of receiving care from their own home is invaluable. Our new home care offerings are designed to meet the highest clinical standards while prioritising patient safety, comfort, and convenience. With services like engaging a sleep consultant for newborn and toddlers, capsule endoscopy, geriatric and chronic disease management care now possible at home, we are truly setting a new benchmark for home-based care in the UAE.' One of the key highlights of Medcare's new home care services is the capsule endoscopy, a unique procedure in the market that enables patients to have a gastrointestinal exam conducted at home without needing to go to the hospital or undergo anaesthesia. Patients simply swallow a small capsule that captures high-quality images of their digestive system while being safely monitored by Medcare's medical professionals. Medcare's certified sleep consultants offers both virtual consultations and home visits, providing expert support to help new mothers and toddlers establish healthy, consistent sleep routines—ensuring restful nights for the entire family. Similarly, Medcare's home sleep study services eliminate the need for overnight hospital stays, allowing patients to undergo diagnostic sleep testing in the familiar surroundings of their own homes. Beyond these advanced procedures, Medcare's comprehensive home care services also encompass a range of essential and supportive offerings designed to meet the diverse needs of patients. This includes life-saving course training for families and caregivers, as well as maternity and newborn support services for expectant mothers and new parents, providing expert guidance and care throughout pregnancy, delivery, and the early stages of a newborn's life. The home care program also supports patients with chronic diseases, offering personalised disease management plans, medication supervision, and continuous monitoring to help them maintain optimal health and prevent complications. Patients can benefit from convenient IV drips administered at home, ensuring hydration, nutrition, and other essential therapies without the need for hospital visits. Medcare's mental health services extend to home settings as well, addressing emotional well-being through counselling and psychiatric support tailored to individual needs without having to face the social stigma of consulting a mental health expert. Other services include home vaccinations for children and adults, physiotherapy services and primary care services, including routine check-ups and preventive care. For those with heart conditions, home-based heart care diagnostics and ongoing assessments ensure that patients receive the same level of expertise and accuracy as in a clinical setting. Looking ahead, Medcare plans to introduce aesthetic services as part of its home care portfolio, further expanding its range of in-home healthcare options. [1] UAE elderly population set to increase to 29 percent by 2050, says DHA chief | Emirates News Agency Comments are closed.
Zawya
5 days ago
- Health
- Zawya
Bringing the Hospital Home: Medcare revolutionises home healthcare by bringing advanced medical procedures at patients' doorsteps
Under Home Healthcare Medcare introduces at-home capsule endoscopy and sleep studies, among several other services, such as geriatric care, managing chronic diseases, providing IV drips, and mental health support for patients. Dubai, UAE: Medcare Hospitals and Medical Centres, a premium healthcare provider under Aster DM Healthcare, has redefined the benchmark for in-home medical care in the UAE with the launch of its advanced home care services. In addition to the standard doctor and nurse visits, Medcare's advanced homecare services now allow patients to receive more sophisticated care procedures, such as sleep consulting for newborn and toddlers, geriatric care, chronic disease management and capsule endoscopy, from the comfort of their own homes. After successfully launching its homecare program during the pandemic five years ago, Medcare Hospitals and Medical Centres has upgraded its home care services to align with the demands of a growing population. According to Dubai Health Authority (DHA), estimates show an expected increase in the proportion of the elderly in the UAE from 6% to 29% by 2050. Elderly individuals and those with chronic conditions are seeking care that is both easy to access and designed to meet their specific needs, potentially keeping them out of the hospital. Since 2020, Medcare has been bringing top notch medical services right into the homes of patients, covering everything from postnatal care to lab tests and physiotherapy. Through their network of 300 skilled DHA-certified professionals, including doctors, nurses and therapies, Medcare is now setting new benchmarks in home medical care for people in UAE, by delivering hospital and clinic level procedures at the homes of patients, which would prove to be convenient for the elderly population. Commenting on the new introductions, Dr. Shanila Laiju, Group CEO of Medcare Hospitals & Medical Centres, said, 'Medcare is shaping a future where healthcare is as accessible and seamless as possible. Our expanded home care services mark an important milestone forward in transforming how healthcare is delivered in the region'. Dr. Shanila Laiju also, stated, 'By expanding our home care services, we are reimagining how healthcare can be delivered, meeting patients where they are and ensuring their comfort and convenience without compromising on quality. Our goal is to bring cutting-edge procedures and comprehensive care directly into the home, transforming the way we think about health and wellness in the UAE.' Mrs. Akanksha Dicholkar, the Group Chief Nursing Officer of Medcare Hospitals & Medical Centres, shared her perspective on the enhanced home care services, saying, 'We understand that for many patients, especially those with chronic conditions or those who are elderly, the comfort of receiving care from their own home is invaluable. Our new home care offerings are designed to meet the highest clinical standards while prioritising patient safety, comfort, and convenience. With services like engaging a sleep consultant for newborn and toddlers, capsule endoscopy, geriatric and chronic disease management care now possible at home, we are truly setting a new benchmark for home-based care in the UAE.' One of the key highlights of Medcare's new home care services is the capsule endoscopy, a unique procedure in the market that enables patients to have a gastrointestinal exam conducted at home without needing to go to the hospital or undergo anaesthesia. Patients simply swallow a small capsule that captures high-quality images of their digestive system while being safely monitored by Medcare's medical professionals. Medcare's certified sleep consultants offers both virtual consultations and home visits, providing expert support to help new mothers and toddlers establish healthy, consistent sleep routines—ensuring restful nights for the entire family. Similarly, Medcare's home sleep study services eliminate the need for overnight hospital stays, allowing patients to undergo diagnostic sleep testing in the familiar surroundings of their own homes. Beyond these advanced procedures, Medcare's comprehensive home care services also encompass a range of essential and supportive offerings designed to meet the diverse needs of patients. This includes life-saving course training for families and caregivers, as well as maternity and newborn support services for expectant mothers and new parents, providing expert guidance and care throughout pregnancy, delivery, and the early stages of a newborn's life. The home care program also supports patients with chronic diseases, offering personalised disease management plans, medication supervision, and continuous monitoring to help them maintain optimal health and prevent complications. Patients can benefit from convenient IV drips administered at home, ensuring hydration, nutrition, and other essential therapies without the need for hospital visits. Medcare's mental health services extend to home settings as well, addressing emotional well-being through counselling and psychiatric support tailored to individual needs without having to face the social stigma of consulting a mental health expert. Other services include home vaccinations for children and adults, physiotherapy services and primary care services, including routine check-ups and preventive care. For those with heart conditions, home-based heart care diagnostics and ongoing assessments ensure that patients receive the same level of expertise and accuracy as in a clinical setting. Looking ahead, Medcare plans to introduce aesthetic services as part of its home care portfolio, further expanding its range of in-home healthcare options. About Medcare: Medcare is a premium healthcare network under the parent group Aster DM Healthcare, operating state-of-the-art hospitals and medical centres across the UAE. Known for its unwavering commitment to patient care, Medcare's multidisciplinary team of expert doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals deliver world-class, integrated care to every patient.
Khaleej Times
08-07-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: 68-year-old expat undergoes complex 9-hour brain surgery for rare tumour
A 68-year-old British expat in Dubai has successfully undergone a rare and complex nine-hour brain surgery to remove a life-threatening tumour that had invaded deep parts of his brain. The patient, who wished to remain anonymous, was diagnosed with a 'butterfly glioma' — a rare and aggressive type of brain tumour that spreads across both hemispheres of the brain through the corpus callosum, the bundle of nerve fibres connecting the two sides. His health concerns began in April 2025, when he noticed weakness in his right leg and had trouble standing up. He also struggled to swallow and experienced involuntary shaking in his left arm, symptoms that worsened over the following weeks. Eventually, he became unable to walk or lift his right arm. Initially, doctors suspected a spinal issue after an X-ray and MRI showed signs of degeneration in his lower back. But as his symptoms progressed, further tests were done, and brain scans revealed a mass deep inside his brain. He was referred to Dr Gopalakrishnan CV, a consultant neurosurgeon at Medcare Orthopaedics & Spine Hospital, who led the high-risk surgical procedure. Using advanced neuronavigation technology, Dr Gopalakrishnan and his team accessed the tumour through a narrow passage in the frontal lobe. The tumour, located about three centimetres below the surface, was grayish and partly soft, but it had spread to critical areas including the right frontal lobe and the septum pellucidum, a delicate membrane near the brain's centre, which also had to be removed. Several damaged blood vessels and areas of dead tissue were also found. The tests also revealed that his pupils were equal and reactive to light, with full and conjugate eye movements. According to the doctor, the cranial nerve examination was normal, although the fundus could not be assessed. Doctors found that the patient had some weakness in his right arm, particularly when bending and straightening the elbow and when lifting the arm sideways. "His leg was more affected, he had very limited strength in bending his right knee and moderate weakness when trying to straighten it," said Dr Gopalkrishnan, adding that his reflexes were normal, his sense of touch was mostly unaffected, and there were no unusual muscle twitches. 'Treating butterfly gliomas is one of the greatest challenges in neurosurgery,' said Dr Gopalakrishnan. 'These tumours grow aggressively in deep parts of the brain and can change a person's personality and behaviour. Our aim is not just to extend life, but to preserve its quality. With precise surgery and cutting-edge treatments like Tumor Treating Fields and proton beam therapy, we're pushing the boundaries of what's possible.' Butterfly gliomas, or glioblastomas, are among the most aggressive brain tumours. They can cause severe symptoms like headaches, personality changes, seizures, and memory or movement problems. Standard treatment usually involves surgery, followed by radiation and chemotherapy. The average survival time after diagnosis is around 10 to 15 months, but outcomes depend on age, overall health, how much of the tumour can be removed, and certain genetic markers. New approaches such as immunotherapy and targeted treatments are offering fresh hope. Reflecting on his journey, the patient shared that getting this diagnosis was overwhelming at first. 'But I have found strength I didn't know I had. With the care and encouragement from my medical team and loved ones, I am staying hopeful and focusing on living each day with purpose and gratitude.'
Web Release
12-06-2025
- Health
- Web Release
Dubai emerges as a regional hub for gene therapy breakthroughs: Medcare leads the way in transforming lives of children with rare genetic diseases
Dubai is rapidly establishing itself as a hub for cutting-edge gene therapy, with Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital Al Qusais being at the forefront of treating rare genetic disorders such as Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). With the hospital's proximity to the Dubai International Airport, a growing number of patients from Turkey, and other countries in the region and beyond are traveling to Dubai for life changing treatments. Medcare has been redefining excellence in the field of paediatric neurology and gene-based therapies, pioneering a new era of hope and healing for families affected by such debilitating conditions. Turkish families are increasingly turning to Medcare for SMA treatments, with incidence rates in Turkey significantly higher than the global average. The hospital's state-of-the-art facilities, international medical expertise, and holistic treatment model position it as a Centre of Excellence for gene disorders, not just in the UAE but across the MENA and the Asia-Pacific regions. SMA, a rare neurodegenerative condition, causes progressive muscle weakness and often proves fatal in infancy if left untreated. In Turkey, SMA affects 1 in every 6,000 births compared to 1 in 10,000 globally[i]. According to the Turkish health authorities, there are currently over 3,000 people living with SMA, and about 150 new cases are diagnosed each year. DMD, another severe neuromuscular disorder, affects over 4,000 genetically confirmed patients in Turkey[ii]. Under the leadership of Dr. Vivek Mundada, a British Board-certified Consultant Paediatric Neurologist at Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital has delivered remarkable outcomes in managing these complex genetic conditions. Unlike traditional therapies that require ongoing spinal injections, Medcare offers a one-time, potentially curative gene therapy that addresses the root cause of the condition, dramatically improving the quality of life and long-term health. Medcare is the first private healthcare provider outside the U.S.A. to successfully administer gene therapy for SMA in the MENA region, having delivered over 100 infusions to date at Medcare Women & Children Hospital. 'Dubai is becoming a center of medical innovation, and Medcare is proud to be leading that movement, especially in the field of rare genetic diseases,' said Dr. Vivek Mundada, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist at Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital. 'Through our comprehensive, patient-centered care model, we are transforming outcomes for children who previously had limited treatment options.' Medcare's approach goes beyond clinical excellence. Patients benefit from a multidisciplinary team that includes experts in neurology, pulmonology, orthopaedics, rehabilitation, and genetic counselling. The hospital also provides continuous follow-up care for international patients after they return home. Turkish families have already seen outstanding results. One such story is that of Mirha, diagnosed with SMA just nine days after she was born. In 2024, she underwent gene therapy at Medcare and is now thriving without the need for breathing or feeding support. Similarly, Elif Bade who was treated in March 2024 when she was just 2 years old, has shown remarkable progress following her gene therapy at Medcare. The parents of Mirha remarked, 'We cannot express enough gratitude to Dr. Mundada and the Medcare team. Thanks to the expert and compassionate care in Dubai, our daughter has been given a new lease on life.' Aligned with the UAE's vision to be a global hub for medical innovation and excellence, Medcare continues to invest in infrastructure, talent, and technology to offer best-in-class care. The newly launched rare disease unit at Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital in Dubai offers AI-powered diagnostics, robotic surgery, and advanced quaternary care, reinforcing its leadership in rare disease management. As part of Aster DM Healthcare, Medcare is committed to expanding access to advanced medical care for international patients, while contributing to the UAE's growing medical tourism sector, where families seek top-tier, cost-effective care without long wait times, especially for critical and time-sensitive conditions like the rare genetic disorders. [i] Turkey vs. Zolgensma: the battle over a $2.1 million drug – SWI [ii] About Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy – DMD Aileleri (Turkey)
