Latest news with #World'sBestSmartHospitals2025
Mid East Info
01-07-2025
- Health
- Mid East Info
New Urgent Care Clinic at Aster Hospital, Al Qusais to ensure Fast Access to Expert Care for Non-Life-Threatening Emergencies
Aster Hospital, Al Qusais, recognized in Newsweek's 'World's Best Smart Hospitals 2025' List among 350 hospitals globally and ranked No. 14 on Newsweek's World's Best Hospitals in the UAE list, has announced the launch of its new Urgent Care Clinic, a dedicated facility designed to deliver fast, GP-led care for patients with urgent but non-life-threatening conditions. Led by experienced General Practitioners across General Medicine, Pediatrics and Gynecology, the clinic operates daily from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM and allows patients to walk in without an appointment, addressing a growing need for convenient and timely access to care, particularly outside of regular hospital hours. The initiative aligns with the UAE'S ongoing efforts to enhance patient care by offering timely alternatives for non-emergency cases, especially during peak hours. It highlights the importance of diversified care pathways to help reduce waiting times and ensure emergency resources are prioritized for patients in critical need. Recognizing this gap, Aster's new Urgent Care Clinic provides an alternative path for patients requiring immediate attention for conditions such as minor injuries, cold and flu symptoms, stomach upsets, pregnancy-related urgencies, and pediatric concerns. Patients are encouraged to visit the Urgent Care Clinic for conditions that are urgent but not life-threatening such as fever, diarrhea, pregnancy discomfort, or minor injuries rather than going to the ER, which should be reserved for emergencies like chest pain, severe bleeding, or loss of consciousness. Conveniently located near Reception A, Ground Floor of Aster Hospital, Al Qusais, the facility is fully equipped with rapid diagnostics and staffed by experienced General Practitioners in General Medicine, Pediatrics, and Gynecology. With quick diagnostics and short wait times, the clinic ensures that patients are treated timely and efficiently, without the stress of navigating a crowded emergency room. Dr. Sherbaz Bichu, CEO of Aster Hospitals & Clinics – UAE, Bahrain, and Oman, emphasized that the clinic was developed with the community's needs at heart. 'The introduction of an urgent care clinic within the Aster hospital Qusais, is a strategic move to alleviate the pressure on the emergency room (ER) by redirecting non-emergent cases. This approach not only enhances patient care but also improves the overall efficiency of hospital services. Patients with minor injuries, illnesses, or those requiring immediate but non-life-threatening care can access the urgent care clinic, ensuring the ER is reserved for critical emergencies. This initiative will result in shorter wait times, especially for pediatric and obstetrics /gynecology patients, ultimately leading to improved patient satisfaction.' Moreover, the urgent care clinic can serve as a bridge for patients who may need follow-up care or referrals, further enhancing the continuity of care. It represents a proactive step in modern healthcare management, focusing on patient needs and optimizing hospital operations. Adding to this, Dr. Ramanathan Venkiteswaran, Consultant Paediatrician & Group Medical Director, Aster Hospitals and Clinics UAE, said, 'We often see that families and patients have to wait for the needed care, which often aggravates the challenge. Our General Practitioners and supporting medical teams will ensure that patients receive timely, condition-appropriate treatment, bridging the gap between outpatient visits and emergency care. This clinic enhances the efficiency of our healthcare system by directing non-emergency cases to the right place.' This initiative also complements broader national healthcare efforts to improve access and efficiency. According to recent data from the UAE National Guard Command, 22,903 emergency cases were responded to by National Ambulance in the first quarter of 2025 (January–March). Notably, over 40% of these cases (9,372) received on-site medical attention, without needing hospital transfer.[1] This highlights a significant portion of emergency cases that could be better managed in dedicated urgent care settings, reinforcing the pressing need for community-based alternatives like the Urgent Care Clinic at Aster Hospital, Al Qusais. The clinic is covered under standard insurance policies, further encouraging accessibility for patients. While there is no telehealth support currently offered, virtual care integration via platforms like myAster is being planned for future implementation. The launch aligns with Aster DM Healthcare's long-term strategy to decongest emergency rooms and expand access to healthcare within communities. While there is no immediate roadmap for replication, the performance and impact of this unit will inform future expansions across the UAE. For more information or to visit the Urgent Care Clinic at Aster Hospital, Al Qusais, patients are welcome to walk in between 10 PM and 6 AM. For inquiries, please contact the hospital directly or visit
Web Release
01-07-2025
- Health
- Web Release
New Urgent Care Clinic at Aster Hospital, Al Qusais to ensure Fast Access to Expert Care for Non-Life-Threatening Emergencies
Aster Hospital, Al Qusais, recognized in Newsweek's 'World's Best Smart Hospitals 2025' List among 350 hospitals globally and ranked No. 14 on Newsweek's World's Best Hospitals in the UAE list, has announced the launch of its new Urgent Care Clinic, a dedicated facility designed to deliver fast, GP-led care for patients with urgent but non-life-threatening conditions. Led by experienced General Practitioners across General Medicine, Pediatrics and Gynecology, the clinic operates daily from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM and allows patients to walk in without an appointment, addressing a growing need for convenient and timely access to care, particularly outside of regular hospital hours. The initiative aligns with the UAE'S ongoing efforts to enhance patient care by offering timely alternatives for non-emergency cases, especially during peak hours. It highlights the importance of diversified care pathways to help reduce waiting times and ensure emergency resources are prioritized for patients in critical need. Recognizing this gap, Aster's new Urgent Care Clinic provides an alternative path for patients requiring immediate attention for conditions such as minor injuries, cold and flu symptoms, stomach upsets, pregnancy-related urgencies, and pediatric concerns. Patients are encouraged to visit the Urgent Care Clinic for conditions that are urgent but not life-threatening such as fever, diarrhea, pregnancy discomfort, or minor injuries rather than going to the ER, which should be reserved for emergencies like chest pain, severe bleeding, or loss of consciousness. Conveniently located near Reception A, Ground Floor of Aster Hospital, Al Qusais, the facility is fully equipped with rapid diagnostics and staffed by experienced General Practitioners in General Medicine, Pediatrics, and Gynecology. With quick diagnostics and short wait times, the clinic ensures that patients are treated timely and efficiently, without the stress of navigating a crowded emergency room. Dr. Sherbaz Bichu, CEO of Aster Hospitals & Clinics – UAE, Bahrain, and Oman, emphasized that the clinic was developed with the community's needs at heart. 'The introduction of an urgent care clinic within the Aster hospital Qusais, is a strategic move to alleviate the pressure on the emergency room (ER) by redirecting non-emergent cases. This approach not only enhances patient care but also improves the overall efficiency of hospital services. Patients with minor injuries, illnesses, or those requiring immediate but non-life-threatening care can access the urgent care clinic, ensuring the ER is reserved for critical emergencies. This initiative will result in shorter wait times, especially for pediatric and obstetrics /gynecology patients, ultimately leading to improved patient satisfaction.' Moreover, the urgent care clinic can serve as a bridge for patients who may need follow-up care or referrals, further enhancing the continuity of care. It represents a proactive step in modern healthcare management, focusing on patient needs and optimizing hospital operations. Adding to this, Dr. Ramanathan Venkiteswaran, Consultant Paediatrician & Group Medical Director, Aster Hospitals and Clinics UAE, said, 'We often see that families and patients have to wait for the needed care, which often aggravates the challenge. Our General Practitioners and supporting medical teams will ensure that patients receive timely, condition-appropriate treatment, bridging the gap between outpatient visits and emergency care. This clinic enhances the efficiency of our healthcare system by directing non-emergency cases to the right place.' This initiative also complements broader national healthcare efforts to improve access and efficiency. According to recent data from the UAE National Guard Command, 22,903 emergency cases were responded to by National Ambulance in the first quarter of 2025 (January–March). Notably, over 40% of these cases (9,372) received on-site medical attention, without needing hospital transfer.1 This highlights a significant portion of emergency cases that could be better managed in dedicated urgent care settings, reinforcing the pressing need for community-based alternatives like the Urgent Care Clinic at Aster Hospital, Al Qusais. The clinic is covered under standard insurance policies, further encouraging accessibility for patients. While there is no telehealth support currently offered, virtual care integration via platforms like myAster is being planned for future implementation. The launch aligns with Aster DM Healthcare's long-term strategy to decongest emergency rooms and expand access to healthcare within communities. While there is no immediate roadmap for replication, the performance and impact of this unit will inform future expansions across the UAE. For more information or to visit the Urgent Care Clinic at Aster Hospital, Al Qusais, patients are welcome to walk in between 10 PM and 6 AM. For inquiries, please contact the hospital directly or visit
Mid East Info
30-03-2025
- Health
- Mid East Info
56-Year-Old Woman Undergoes Scar-Free Hysterectomy at Aster Hospital Al Qusais Using Advanced vNOTES Technique
Aster Hospital Al Qusais, recognized in Newsweek's 'World's Best Smart Hospitals 2025' List among 350 hospitals globally and ranked No. 14 on Newsweek's World's Best Hospitals in the UAE list, successfully performed a groundbreaking hysterectomy using a scar-free, minimally invasive technique known as Vaginal Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (vNOTES). This advanced procedure eliminates the need for cuts on the abdomen, allowing for faster recovery, reduced pain, and improved surgical precision. The surgery was performed on 56-year-old Ms. Sarojadevi Selvaraja, an Indian national, who was experiencing unusual postmenopausal bleeding for some time. After experiencing irregular spotting for two years, she had a more severe episode in January, which prompted her to seek medical advice. A thorough evaluation revealed precancerous changes in the uterine lining, which, if untreated, could lead to further complications. Given her previous medical history, including high blood pressure and past gynecological procedures, her doctors recommended hysterectomy. Since she preferred a less invasive approach, the expert medical team at Aster Hospital Al Qusais, led by Dr. Fathima Safa, Specialist in Obstetrics & Gynecology, chose the vNOTES technique, ensuring a smoother recovery and better cosmetic results. While hysterectomies are most common in women between the ages of 40 and 49, performing this type of scar-free surgery on an older patient highlights the hospital's expertise in handling complex cases with the latest medical advancements. 2 Unlike traditional surgery, which requires cuts on the abdomen, vNOTES allows doctors to remove the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries through the natural vaginal opening. A specialized device creates a working space, allowing the surgical team to use a tiny camera and advanced instruments to carefully perform the procedure with minimal bleeding. During the procedure, doctors carefully removed the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries using a minimally invasive approach that required no abdominal incisions. Advanced technology ensured precision, minimal bleeding, and faster healing. Thanks to the vNOTES technique, Ms. Sarojadevi experienced little discomfort and was able to leave the hospital within a day, resuming her daily routine much sooner than with traditional surgery. Dr. Fathima Safa, Specialist in Obstetrics & Gynecology, Aster Hospital Al Qusais highlighted the importance of using advanced techniques in gynecological surgery. She stated, 'vNOTES is the future of minimally invasive procedures, combining the benefits of traditional vaginal surgery with the precision of modern techniques. This results in quicker recovery, less pain, and no visible scars. While laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgeries are commonly used, vNOTES takes it a step further by eliminating external incisions entirely, making it a significant breakthrough in gynecologic surgery.' Dr. Aysha Salam, Specialist in Obstetrics & Gynecology at Aster Hospital Sharjah, added, 'This technique is a game-changer for women who need gynecologic surgery. It shortens recovery time, reduces post-surgery discomfort, and significantly improves overall patient experience. Aster Hospitals is committed to bringing innovative and patient-friendly surgical solutions to enhance women's healthcare.' Expressing her gratitude, Ms. Sarojadevi said, 'I was initially worried about having surgery, but the doctors reassured me about the benefits of this advanced approach. With no visible scars, little pain, and a quick recovery, I felt at ease and deeply appreciated the care and expertise of Dr. Fathima Safa, Dr. Aysha Salam, and the entire medical team.' The vNOTES technique offers several advantages over traditional surgery. Since it is performed through the vaginal canal, patients have no visible scars, experience faster recovery, and can return to normal activities sooner. In fact, many patients are able to return to work within 2 to 3 weeks, while others may need 4 to 6 weeks, depending on their recovery. Post-surgery discomfort is minimal, reducing the need for strong pain medication. The use of a small camera provides a clear, detailed view, allowing for safer and more precise surgery while lowering the risk of complications such as excessive bleeding or internal scar tissue. Recent studies have shown that vNOTES hysterectomy results in shorter operation times, less pain after surgery, and fewer complications compared to traditional laparoscopic hysterectomy. Since receiving approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2019, the technique has gained international recognition and is being used for a variety of gynecologic procedures, including the removal of ovarian cysts, treatment of ectopic pregnancies, and surgeries to improve pelvic support. 1 vNOTES is a great option for many patients, but it may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions, like severe endometriosis, previous colorectal surgery, or pelvic radiation. However, for those who are eligible, vNOTES offers a safer and faster recovery with fewer scars and less pain Aster Hospital Al Qusais remains at the forefront of medical innovation, ensuring that patients receive the highest standard of care with the most advanced and patient-friendly surgical options available.
Mid East Info
21-02-2025
- Health
- Mid East Info
46-Year-Old Sharjah Resident with Uncontrolled Glaucoma Successfully Treated with Microshunt Surgery at Aster Hospital Al Qusais
Aster Hospital Al Qusais, recognized in Newsweek's 'World's Best Smart Hospitals 2025' List among 350 hospitals globally and ranked No. 14 on Newsweek's World's Best Hospitals in the UAE list, has successfully performed its first glaucoma microshunt surgery on 46-year-old Indian woman, who was suffering from advanced refractive neovascular glaucoma secondary to retinal vein occlusion. This surgery has not only brought her eye pressure back to normal, reducing it from a dangerously high level of 50mmHG to a stable 12mmHG, but also effectively prevented further loss of vision and relieved her chronic pain. The patient, a financial professional residing in Sharjah, had been battling diabetes for four years and was receiving treatment for retinal vein occlusion elsewhere. She was referred to Aster Hospital Al Qusais after experiencing complications, including glaucoma, bleeding, and retinal detachment. She had been treated for blocked blood vessels (retinal vein occlusion) and underwent successful retinal detachment surgery performed by Dr. Boopathy Murugavel, Specialist Ophthalmology at Aster Hospital Al Qusais. She was also prescribed eye drops for glaucoma as part of her ongoing treatment. Despite being on maximum eye drops, her eye pressures remained critically high at 50 mmHG, causing severe pain and a significant risk of further vision loss. Recognizing the complexity of her condition, Dr. Boopathy Murugavel recommended glaucoma microshunt surgery to address the issue. Microshunt surgery is a minimally invasive procedure designed to lower eye pressure in glaucoma patients. It involves the implantation of a small device in the eye to help fluid drain more effectively, reducing pressure and preventing further damage to the optic nerve. The microshunt surgery, a minimally invasive treatment option, successfully reduced the patient's eye pressure to 12mmHG – a normal and sustainable level. This surgery marks a significant milestone in Aster Hospital Al Qusais' expanding ophthalmology services. Commenting on the procedure, Dr. Boopathy Murugavel, Specialist Ophthalmology at Aster Hospital Al Qusais, said, 'Neovascular glaucoma is one of the most challenging forms of glaucoma to treat, as it often results from conditions like diabetic retinopathy or blocked blood vessels in the eye (retinal vein occlusion). Traditional surgical options, such as trabeculectomy, carry a higher risk of bleeding and failure due to scarring. The microshunt procedure provides a safer and more effective alternative, offering better outcomes with minimal downtime and faster recovery. We are proud to have achieved such a positive result for our patient and look forward to providing advanced solutions to more patients in need.' The patient expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Boopathy and the medical team at Aster Hospital Al Qusais, stating: 'I am truly thankful for the exceptional care I received. Dr. Boopathy and the team were supportive throughout the process, and I am relieved that my eye pressure is now under control. This surgery has brought me freedom from chronic pain, and I am forever grateful to Aster Hospital Al Qusais for restoring my quality of life.' Glaucoma, often referred to as the 'silent thief of sight,' causes progressive vision loss due to increased eye pressure. Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can cause vision loss and blindness by damaging a nerve in the back of your eye called the optic nerve. The symptoms can start so slowly that you may not notice them, which is why regular eye exams are essential. Neovascular glaucoma, a more severe form, arises from poor blood circulation in the eye due to conditions like diabetic retinopathy and blocked blood vessels. The microshunt device offers a cutting-edge solution with reduced risk of complications and higher success rates, making it a game-changer in treating advanced glaucoma cases. Notably, while glaucoma is more common in older adults, with those over 60 being six times more likely to develop the condition2, this case is exceptional, as the patient is only 46 years old. This emphasizes the importance of early detection and treatment of glaucoma, regardless of age. This surgery highlights Aster Hospital Al Qusais' commitment to providing innovative, patient-centric care and reinforces its position as a leading healthcare provider in the UAE.
Arab News
17-02-2025
- Health
- Arab News
UK science minister visits King Faisal Specialist Hospital's heart center
RIYADH: The United Kingdom's Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology visited the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center in Riyadh on Monday, the Saudi Press Agency reported. Peter Kyle was shown the hospital's cardiac facilities, which have pioneered advancements in cardiac care and medical innovation. Kyle visited the Heart Center of Excellence, where he observed cutting-edge technologies and medical breakthroughs that have positioned KFSHRC as a global leader in specialized healthcare. He was received by Dr. Hani Al-Sergani, the center's executive director, and his deputy, Prof. Feras Khaliel. The British official met with the medical team responsible for the world's first fully robotic heart transplant, a landmark achievement led by Khaliel. Kyle also reviewed the latest advancements in minimally invasive organ transplantation, which reduce surgical risks and improve patient recovery times. His visit follows the international recognition of KFSHRC's medical milestones, particularly after the groundbreaking robotic heart transplant. KFSHRC ranked first in the Middle East and North Africa region and 15th globally among the world's top 250 academic medical centers for the second consecutive year. It was also named the most valuable healthcare brand in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East by Brand Finance 2025, and was included in Newsweek's World's Best Smart Hospitals 2025 list.
