SSMC launches dedicated cancer survivorship clinic in UAE

UAE—Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC), a leading hospital in the UAE known for its expertise in complex and severe medical care, has announced the launch of its Survivorship Clinic—a dedicated service designed to support individuals as they transition from cancer treatment to life after cancer.

 As a subsidiary of the PureHealth group and operated in collaboration with Mayo Clinic, SSMC continues to set new standards for patient-centered care in the region.

The introduction of the Survivorship Clinic marks a significant advancement in the cancer care continuum at SSMC.

Recognizing that the challenges of cancer do not end with the completion of treatment, the clinic is committed to addressing the full spectrum of survivors’ needs—physical, emotional, and social.

The clinic takes a multidisciplinary approach and brings together a team of specialists, including oncologists, internists, dietitians, physiotherapists, and psychologists.

This collaborative model ensures that every patient receives comprehensive, individualized attention tailored to their unique circumstances.

Dr. Abdulqader Almessabi, SSMC’s Chief Medical Officer, emphasized that the opening of the Survivorship Clinic represents a pivotal milestone in expanding the hospital’s specialized oncology services.

He highlighted that the clinic is a testament to SSMC’s ongoing commitment to supporting patients beyond their active treatment phase, adding a new dimension to the hospital’s already robust cancer care offerings.

According to Dr. Almessabi, the clinic’s true distinguishing feature is its integrated, holistic approach, which allows patients to consult with multiple specialists in a single visit.

This streamlines care, promotes coordination among providers, and fosters a more cohesive healing experience.

The Survivorship Clinic is designed to address various concerns that arise after cancer treatment.

Specialists at the clinic offer guidance on dietary needs to support optimal recovery, conduct risk assessments for potential future cancers, provide age-appropriate cancer screenings, and deliver psychological support to help patients cope with the emotional impact of cancer.

 In addition, the clinic manages long-term side effects of chemotherapy and works proactively on cancer prevention strategies.

Dr. Aydah Al Awadhi, Chair of the Haematology and Oncology Division, noted that as cancer survival rates continue to rise, the demand for dedicated survivorship care is greater than ever.

She cited research showing that survivorship programs improve physical, emotional, and social well-being, better manage late and long-term effects, enhance care coordination, and increase adherence to health maintenance.

Dr. Al Awadhi explained that SSMC’s clinic goes beyond routine follow-up visits, offering a thorough evaluation and truly personalized care for each survivor.

SSMC’s commitment to individualized, patient-focused care is evident throughout its operations.

The hospital’s model of care ensures that every patient is at the center of a multidisciplinary team, leveraging advanced technology and the latest treatment techniques to deliver world-class healthcare.

With the launch of the Survivorship Clinic, SSMC continues to raise the bar for cancer care in the UAE, striving to exceed patient expectations and improve quality of life for survivors at every stage of their journey.

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