Navigating the healthcare landscape as an expat

Residence visas and health insurance have gone hand-in-hand in the UAE since 2014. A healthy population is generally more economically productive and so mandatory healthcare systems contribute to a physically and mentally healthy workforce, reduce absenteeism, improve productivity, and ultimately benefit the economy.

In a bustling metropolis, citizens and expatriates alike benefit from mandatory healthcare, a system that transcends the conventional concerns of medical expenses.

The healthcare infrastructure in GCC countries boasts state-of-the-art facilities equipped with cutting-edge technology and a cadre of highly skilled medical professionals drawn from all corners of the globe. Among the sought-after medical specialities, orthopedics, dermatology, and ophthalmology take center stage, addressing the diverse health needs of the multicultural population.

By aligning residence visas with health insurance, the UAE not only addresses the conventional concerns of medical expenses but also nurtures a workforce that is resilient and engaged. This holistic approach doesn't just reduce absenteeism but enhances productivity, ultimately weaving into the fabric of a thriving economy. In the grand narrative of Dubai's success, the mandatory healthcare system plays a pivotal role, ensuring that the city's citizens and expatriates alike can contribute their best to the dynamic and flourishing community.

Citizens and expatriates, irrespective of their origins, find themselves enveloped in a healthcare ecosystem where timely interventions are not just encouraged but seamlessly facilitated. The worry of healthcare costs dissipates, allowing individuals to address their health concerns promptly, acting as a shield against the progression of diseases and fostering improved treatment outcomes.

Private vs public

Expatriates can access healthcare either through employer-sponsored plans or private health insurance, catering to their medical needs, including treatments, hospitalization, and other related expenses. The details of expat healthcare vary across GCC countries, shaped by government policies, employer programs, and the healthcare infrastructure of each member state.

Navigating their health journey, expatriates often find themselves drawn to private care, a testament to the personalized and efficient services available. Private healthcare becomes more than just a service; it evolves into an experience tailored to individual needs, going above and beyond the conventional boundaries of medical attention.

Navigating this world of healthcare excellence is made seamless through digital platforms like myNAS, an online portal that empowers users with a myriad of healthcare functionalities. From effortlessly booking appointments with esteemed specialists to unraveling the intricacies of healthcare plans, myNAS becomes the compass guiding individuals through the maze of healthcare choices.

The catalyst 

In the realm of Gulf healthcare, ambitious national visions and strategic policies are leading the way. UAE Vision 2021 and Saudi Vision 2030 in particular, are spearheading a shift towards extensive government strategies, with an aim to elevate and improve the role of the private healthcare sector. This evolution, with a keen focus on customer satisfaction, responds to the increasing necessity for healthcare services. 

The rising demand for healthcare systems is a result of the shifting demographic landscape with a growing population. In response, governments and healthcare providers are compelled to invest in infrastructure, technology, and skilled healthcare professionals to guarantee residents access to high-quality and comprehensive healthcare services.

This dynamic relationship between population growth and healthcare needs underscores the importance of strategic healthcare planning and continuous adaptation to meet the evolving demands of a diverse and expanding population.

An ageing population:

A comprehensive private healthcare system delivers a high standard of care which resulted in the UAE, with an expatriate population of 90%,  being ranked one of the Top 10 most efficient healthcare systems in the world in 2018. 

GCC countries have a relatively young population with 63-79% of the national population being of working age and less than 40 years old, primarily due to the high expatriate population. However, with population growth, by 2050 all GCC countries will witness a change in age profile at a much faster rate than the global population. As the population grows and diversifies, so does it age.

About 70% of all deaths in the region are related to NCDs (non-communicable diseases) and as the population ages and the burden of NCDs increases, the elderly population is likely to account for the highest proportion of healthcare expenditure by 2050. At least 20% of the population is likely to be 60 or older and with an improved economy, spending capacity, and access to care, the average life expectancy in GCC countries is to increase by 4 to 4.5 years. All GCC countries have a life expectancy above the global average in 2020, and that is expected to be true in 2050.

GulfCare, with its robust foundation and strong partnerships, stands as a beacon for expats seeking reliable and comprehensive healthcare coverage. By understanding the intricacies of GulfCare and its network of providers, expats can navigate the UAE's healthcare landscape with confidence and peace of mind.

The role of GulfCare

GulfCare takes pride in tailoring personalised healthcare plans for each partner, catering to the distinct requirements of their workforce. Regardless of a company's size or the specific plan needed, GulfCare collaborates to ensure the optimal choice for your business. 

Contact us today to discover how GulfCare can provide customized corporate healthcare plans that enhance your business.