Abu Dhabi: The Department of Health Abu Dhabi (DoH) has launched the “Poison and Drug Information Service,” aiming at preventing and treating poison incidents of all kinds.
The service was announced in the presence of Dr. Jamal Mohammed Al Kaabi, under secretary of DoH, during the department’s Research and Innovation Centre’s (RIC) participation in the Middle East and North Africa Clinical Toxicology Conference (MENATOX).
The RIC aims to raise awareness about the safe use of drugs and the necessary procedures to prevent poisoning. The service includes ways to deal with poisoning cases to limit complications and thus preserve the health and safety of community members.
Through this service, we aim to expand poison prevention and treatment and reduce the incidence of accidental poisoning. Reiterating Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading destination for healthcare, day in and day out we work towards ensuring that the Emirate is equipped with a world-class healthcare ecosystem in accordance with international standards and best practises for the benefit of all members of our community.
Dr. Asma Al Mannaei, Executive Director of RIC, shared.
“At DoH, we are committed to continuously providing comprehensive services that meet all the needs of our community. We call on the community members to leverage the services provided and to not hesitate in contacting the hotline if any relevant assistance is needed,” the executive director added.
Dr. Badria Alhatali, President of the Middle East and North Africa Clinical Toxicology Conference, commented, “Poison centres around the world have proven their ability to improve the health and safety of members of society. We are delighted that DoH is launching the drug and poison information service at the conference.”
In the first phase, RIC will offer guidance services from trained professionals in the fields of toxicology and overdose management through the 800-424 hotline. This service is available to community members on weekdays from 7:00 AM to 11.00 PM.
RIC will further explore cooperation between partners in the field to develop the necessary regulations and policies to ensure the highest levels of chemical safety in Abu Dhabi.
Through this service, the department seeks to strengthen research efforts in the emirate to further develop the clinical toxicology field and improve healthcare outcomes, in addition to reducing and eliminating poisoning as well as overdoses among residents.