Six Dubai medical execs lose licences in 2012

Six medical professionals had their licences revoked as a result of complaints to the Dubai Health Authority's regulation department in 2012.

Another eight practitioners had their licences suspended while a total of 151 complaints from patients out of a total of 320 were deemed to be valid.

Dr Layla Mohamed Al Marzouqi, head of clinical governance office, DHA Health Regulation Department, said in a statement that a further 32 warning letters were sent out to medical professionals.

She said that the length of suspension of licences depended on the severity of the medical error but revocation was permanent.

Marzouqi said that of the 151 cases received, 110 cases were sent for investigation, 24 for a peer review and three for a hospital resolution. Six cases were closed and eight are awaiting action.

Of the 110 cases investigated, 47 cases of investigation were completed. Of these, 15 cases showed malpractice and 32 cases showed no malpractice.

She said of the cases received, medical complaints were lodged by patients and their relatives for several issues ranging from alleged malpractice and/or negligence to issues such as poor communication, prolonged waiting time, and treatment delays.

Marzoqui said: "The committees and peer group reviews are unbiased groups and this process is crucial for transparency and fair judgement."