Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Photo: WAM
The newly launched Health Inclusivity Index, developed by Haleon in partnership with Economist Impact, ranks the United Arab Emirates first in the world for health outreach programs, public participation in health policy, and the promotion of wellbeing. This ranking places the UAE at the forefront of inclusive health systems globally.
High-Level Panel in Abu Dhabi
The Index results were revealed during a panel discussion in Abu Dhabi, hosted by Haleon, the UAE–UK Business Council, and Economist Impact. The panel—titled “From Awareness to Action: Building Healthier Communities Through Self‑Care and Literacy”—brought together senior leaders from the government, academia, and healthcare sectors to discuss the implications of the findings.
Expert Voices Share Their Insights
Speakers included Dr. Omniyat Al Hajeri, Executive Director of Community Health at Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre; Arda Arat, General Manager at GNE, Haleon; Dr. Bhawani Bhatnagar, Senior VP at Daman Clinical Innovation; Paul Downey, GM of Abu Dhabi Biobank; and Gerard Dunleavy, Health Policy Consultant at Economist Impact. Bradley Jones from the UAE–UK Business Council also delivered special remarks on cross‑sector partnerships.
Coverage Across 40 Nations
The Health Inclusivity Index evaluates 40 countries across 58 performance indicators, measuring health literacy, community outreach, inclusion, and equity. The UAE stood out not only for its top ranking in outreach programs but also took impressive positions in person‑centered care and health system inclusion.
Person-Centred and Inclusive Healthcare
Among the indexed nations, the UAE is in the top five for person‑centred healthcare and ranks second for inclusive health system execution. The country also places tenth globally on health literacy improvements, with a 30% increase over the past three years, showing progress in public awareness and cross‑sector collaboration.
Economic Impact of Health Literacy
The Index indicates that reducing low health literacy by just 25% in the UAE could save up to US $2.3 billion annually in healthcare costs. People with limited health knowledge incur 2.8 times higher medical expenses, highlighting the direct economic benefits of education and awareness campaigns.
Savings From Better Oral Health
Enhancing oral health care could save US $572 million in lifetime costs linked to tooth decay. The country also loses over 8.2 million working hours and US $175 million yearly in productivity due to oral illness—pointing to substantial gains from preventative dental care.
Women’s Health and Anaemia Reduction
Anaemia affects 24.3% of women of reproductive age in the UAE. Addressing this issue could yield about US $336 million in annual savings. The Index also links better gum disease management with potential US $809 million savings in diabetes-related healthcare costs over ten years.
Inclusive Health Means Economic Strength
Inclusive health systems that remove barriers for women, older adults, low‑income groups, and those with low health literacy not only promote fairness but also boost economic strength. These benefits extend well beyond medical outcomes to national resilience and productivity.
Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre Speaks
Dr. Omniyat Al Hajeri emphasized the importance of creating inclusive, prevention‑focused healthcare systems that empower individuals and protect communities. She affirmed the centre’s commitment to collaborative work that builds awareness and strengthens resilience.
UAE–UK Council Encourages Bilateral Support
Bradley Jones praised the collaboration between public and private sectors in both the UAE and UK. He highlighted the UAE–UK Business Council’s support of initiatives like the Index and stressed turning data into practical actions that benefit communities.
Haleon’s Role in Empowering Self‑Care
Arda Arat described the Index as a “call to action,” not just a measurement tool. She said it demonstrates how removing everyday health barriers strengthens economies and societies. Haleon, she added, wants to help individuals achieve better health through improved literacy and access.
Abu Dhabi Biobank on Inclusive Research
Paul Downey noted that effective health research begins with public understanding. He said improving literacy and using genetic and biological data responsibly will ensure research reflects population diversity, ultimately improving healthcare solutions.
Economist Impact on Economic Benefits
Gerard Dunleavy commented that health literacy and inclusion are more than moral duties—they are economic foundations. He pointed to the Index data that shows investment in literacy reduces costs, boosts workforce participation, and enhances community resilience.
Launch Marks Start of Multi-Phase Effort
The Index launch is only the beginning. Leaders described it as the first phase of a broader effort to incorporate health inclusivity and literacy into public systems, business strategies, and everyday life throughout the region.
Community Awareness Drives Change
Improving public awareness of health and self-care helps individuals take charge of their wellbeing early. This shift from treatment to prevention builds healthier, more informed communities—and eases pressure on healthcare infrastructure.
Cross-Sector Collaboration Is Key
Experts emphasized that success requires coordinated work across sectors: government, healthcare providers, private firms, academia, and community organizers. Sharing data, expertise, and resources is vital for raising national health standards.
UAE’s Health Policies Encourage Engagement
Programs that invite citizens to engage with health policymaking show the UAE’s commitment to person-centred care. Community involvement builds trust and ensures policies reflect real needs across society.
Raising Literacy to Spur Growth
Investing in health literacy improves outcomes and underpins innovation and economic growth. Informed individuals contribute more productively to society, and health systems gain from efficient use and lower costs.
Removing Barriers to Care
The Index highlights the importance of reducing barriers for under‑served groups. Inclusive models support individuals facing language, cultural, income, or educational challenges, ensuring everyone benefits from healthcare advances.
Health Literacy Supports Economic Resilience
By connecting literacy to economic savings and productivity gains, the Index makes a strong financial case for inclusion. Healthcare investments become strategic economic tools with returns in public health and workforce strength.
UAE as a Model for Health Inclusion
With its leading global position, the UAE sets an example for other countries in using inclusive healthcare systems to drive social and economic benefits. The country’s experience could guide regional and global best practices.
Next Steps: From Data to Action
Following the launch, stakeholders plan workshops, policy forums, and public awareness drives. They also aim to develop tools that measure progress and evaluate the economic and health impact of interventions.
Regional Influence and Collaboration
With the Index covering multiple countries, the UAE’s best practices can be shared regionally. Collaborative efforts across the Gulf region promise wider improvement in health systems and more inclusive healthcare across the Middle East.
A Blueprint for Inclusive Health
The Health Inclusivity Index showcases how health equality, literacy, and outreach benefit both communities and national economies. With its top ranking and focused efforts, the UAE offers a compelling model for building healthier, equitable, and stronger societies.
English
