DUBAI: The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has announced a significant advancement in telehealth services, bolstering Dubai's position as a leader in digital health. The authority has reported substantial growth in telehealth consultations and electronic prescriptions while introducing new clinical guidelines to further enhance virtual healthcare. According to Emirates News Agency, a recent DHA report revealed that telehealth consultations in Dubai surged to nearly 375,000 in 2023, marking a 28 percent increase from 2022. Electronic prescriptions also saw a dramatic rise, surpassing 230,000-a 103 percent increase. The report highlighted that 85 percent of telehealth consultations were completed within two days, with patient satisfaction rates at 92 percent and healthcare providers reporting a 97 percent satisfaction rate. In a bid to further solidify Dubai's leadership in digital health, DHA organized a workshop to introduce new clinical guidelines for treating diseases through telehealth. These guidelines aim to support physicians both within Dubai and internationally, providing a comprehensive reference for best practices in virtual healthcare services. They are designed to standardize and elevate the quality of care provided. The guidelines encompass a broad range of clinical protocols based on internationally recognized practices. They include recommendations on clinical pathways, referral indicators, necessary follow-ups, and essential investigations. Developed in collaboration with Karger, a globally renowned medical publisher, the guidelines are available online through international platforms. Dr. Marwan Al Mulla, CEO of the Health Regulation Sector at DHA, noted the rapid transformations in Dubai's healthcare sector, emphasizing the authority's commitment to enhancing the city's global standing in healthcare, with a focus on digital health. He highlighted the progress in telehealth services as a reflection of Dubai's advanced medical capabilities and expertise in smart solutions. Dr. Hanan Obaid, Direct or of Health Policies and Standards at DHA's Health Regulation Sector, remarked that the guidelines represent a crucial step in supporting Dubai's digital health strategy and expanding telehealth services. She emphasized that the high-level guidelines align with international medical practices and will help improve telehealth providers' performance and the quality of healthcare delivered. Dubai now has more than 140 telehealth service providers licensed by DHA, ranging from standalone virtual service facilities to those integrating telehealth into existing services. Dr. Hanan also highlighted that since 2017, DHA has established a regulatory framework for telehealth services, engaging with stakeholders to develop standards, guidelines, and policies aligned with Dubai's digital health strategy. The workshop concluded with DHA honoring several telehealth providers, including the "Doctor for Every Citizen" programme and independent service providers such as "TruDoc Healthcare" and "Health at Hand." Recognition was also given to large hospital groups like "Mediclinic Middle East," "Prime Healthcare Group," and "Medcare Hospitals," as well as outpatient clinics such as "Emirates Airline Group," "Al Futtaim Healthcare Group," and the "American Center for Psychiatry and Neurology."