Medical Malpractice Insurance in the UAE – Medical Liability Insurance

Medical Malpractice Insurance in the UAE – Medical Liability Insurance

Medical Malpractice Insurance in the UAE – Medical Liability Insurance

Medical Malpractice Insurance in the UAE – Medical Liability Insurance

Medical malpractice insurance, also known as medical liability insurance, is a crucial component of the healthcare system in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It provides financial protection to healthcare professionals and institutions in cases of malpractice, ensuring compensation for affected patients while maintaining trust in the medical profession.

1. Legal Requirements for Medical Malpractice Insurance

The UAE mandates that all healthcare professionals and institutions maintain medical malpractice insurance. Key legal provisions include:

• Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability

  – Establishes liability and mandates insurance coverage.

• Health Authority Regulations

  – Enforced by MOHAP, DHA, and DOH for licensed medical practitioners.

• Federal Law No. 7 of 2019 on Health Insurance

  – Covers medical malpractice under health insurance policies.

2. Coverage of Medical Malpractice Insurance

• Misdiagnosis and Delayed Diagnosis

  – Claims involving incorrect or missed diagnoses.

• Surgical Errors

  – Includes negligence during surgery and post-surgical complications.

• Medication Errors

  – Incorrect prescriptions or dosages causing harm.

• Failure to Obtain Informed Consent

  – Patients unaware of medical risks can seek compensation.

• Negligence Resulting in Death or Disability

  – Serious cases involving life-altering outcomes.

3. Compensation and Claims Process

Patients can file complaints with the relevant health authority. The medical liability committee investigates and determines if malpractice occurred. Valid claims may cover:

• Corrective medical expenses
• Loss of income due to the error
• Psychological and emotional distress

4. Role of Medical Liability Insurance in Risk Management

• Ensures fair compensation to patients
• Protects professionals from legal and financial consequences
• Promotes adherence to quality healthcare practices

5. Challenges and Recent Developments

• Improved dispute resolution timelines
• Greater transparency in claims processing
• Expanded insurance options for healthcare providers

Conclusion:

Medical malpractice insurance remains vital in reinforcing patient safety and medical accountability in the UAE. With continued legal updates and support from health authorities, the system strives to balance provider protection with patient rights.

Attorney / Mohamed Al Marzooqi
Mohamed Al Marzooqi advocates & Consultancy
Lawyer in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Ajman UAE

“Medical Malpractice Insurance in the UAE – Medical Liability Insurance”