Ministry of Health and Prevention hosted a workshop on Organ donation and Transplant on March 7 in Abu Dhabi.
The workshop was attended by participants from the following institutes in addition to the GMU,
- Al Qassimi Hospital,
- Cleveland Clinic
- Tawam Hospital,
- Dubai Hospital,
- Dubai Medical College,
- Gulf Medical University
- RAK Medical & Health Sciences University,
- MBR University,
- SKMC, Ajman
- DHA
- DoH and other experts in Organ donation from Brazile, US, and Australia.
The workshop aimed to promote collaboration and share best practices in ‘Organ Donation’. The speakers emphasized the importance of raising awareness about ‘Organ donation’ and overcoming cultural and religious barriers that may impede donation rates. They also discussed the need for standardization in ‘Organ donation’ protocols and the importance of ensuring that donor families are adequately supported throughout the donation process. Representatives from various hospitals and Medical colleges shared their experiences in implementing Organ donation programs and strategies to increase donation rates. The speakers highlighted the need for a multidisciplinary approach involving healthcare professionals, administrators, and community outreach teams. They also emphasized the importance of education and training for healthcare professionals and the need to develop effective communication strategies to engage with potential donors and their families. The workshop included a presentation about the progress in the National program for organizing the transfer and transplantation of human organs and tissues in the country. The participants were divided into six groups and given various plans to develop and enhance ‘Organ donation’.
The GMU team was given the task to identify Challenges and opportunities for “Research and Data-Driven System, National Donation and Transplant Registry, Transplant Outcomes”. which was presented by the group.
At the end of the workshop, the Draft Strategies for 2023-2026 were presented.
The following were suggested by the GMU team.
- Have a proper channel of communication with the National Program for ‘Organ donation and transplant authorities (in MOHAP, DHA, DOH).
- Plan for certified courses/ education sessions related to Organ donation (e.g. Brain death).
- Incorporate Organ donation in the training of doctors and nurses during the breaking bad news to the family/person.
- Conduct awareness campaigns about Organ donation and HAYAT program.
- Conduct research on public knowledge, attitudes, and readiness to donate
GMU Team: Prof. Shatha Al- Sharbatti (Community Medicine).
Dr. Soney M Varghese and Ms. Vimala Varatharajan (College of Nursing)