Dubai: Some patients at private healthcare facilities in the UAE have raised concerns about the number of medical tests requested during diagnosis and treatment, arguing that repeated examinations can result in additional financial costs and psychological stress.
Several patients said they felt some tests were unnecessary, particularly when similar examinations had already been conducted elsewhere. They called for clearer controls governing the request and repetition of medical tests to ensure accurate diagnosis without imposing avoidable costs on patients.
Patient concerns
Patient Hessa A. said she visited several doctors at different hospitals while seeking a diagnosis for symptoms that remained unexplained.
"I underwent numerous tests and examinations, many of which were repeated despite carrying previous blood test results, scans and medical reports," she said.
She added that inconsistent diagnoses and repeated examinations eventually led to frustration and a loss of confidence in the treatment process.
Another patient, Ali M., said he underwent multiple blood tests and an MRI scan after consulting a doctor about swelling around his eye.
"In the end, I was told there was no health problem. Although my insurance covered part of the cost, I still paid around AED 500 and felt many of the tests were not justified," he said.
Similarly, Jamal M. questioned the number of tests and X-rays requested during a consultation for tooth pain, saying the final treatment involved only pain relief medication.
Doctors reject commercial motivations
Healthcare professionals stressed that requesting medical tests for financial or commercial reasons is strictly prohibited.
Dr Adel Sajwani, consultant in family medicine, said laboratory tests and medical investigations are based on factors such as a patient's age, gender, family history and symptoms.
"A doctor's request for tests to achieve a financial target is strictly prohibited," he said.
"If any healthcare facility asks a doctor to achieve a financial target, it should be immediately reported to the relevant health authorities."
Dr Sajwani encouraged patients to discuss requested investigations with their physicians and ask about the purpose and clinical value of each test.
Examinations based on medical need
Dr Badriya Al Harami, consultant in public health, said medical investigations are not random and are based on scientific standards and clinical judgement.
"The required tests differ from one patient to another even if the apparent diagnosis appears similar," she said.
She acknowledged that some patients may perceive testing as excessive when the purpose of each investigation is not clearly explained.
"Good communication between doctor and patient, and explaining the reason behind each test, greatly contributes to building trust and reducing these concerns," she added.
Role of insurance oversight
Dr Hisham Tayel, an interventional cardiologist, said the healthcare system includes several layers of oversight designed to prevent unnecessary testing.
He noted that both regulators and insurance providers monitor the use of medical investigations and compare physicians' practices within the same speciality.
"If a doctor repeatedly requests unjustified tests, insurance companies may reject those requests and review the doctor's practices," he said.
Dr Tayel added that insurers sometimes contact patients directly to verify symptoms and confirm whether investigations were appropriate.
Ministry outlines regulatory measures
In response to enquiries, the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) emphasised that all diagnostic and therapeutic procedures must be based on actual medical need and approved professional standards.
The ministry said patients can submit complaints through its electronic feedback system if they believe there has been an unfair procedure, incorrect practice or a request for tests that are not appropriate for their condition.
According to MoHAP, complaints are investigated thoroughly by reviewing medical records, obtaining responses from healthcare facilities and, where required, referring cases to the Medical Liability Committee for assessment.
The ministry said it conducts both regular and surprise inspections of healthcare facilities to ensure compliance with approved standards and regulations.
Accountability for proven violations
MoHAP stressed that medical decisions must be based solely on the patient's health interests and clinical requirements.
The ministry said any practices that affect the independence of medical decision-making are subject to monitoring and investigation.
Where violations are proven, regulatory action may be taken against healthcare facilities or healthcare professionals in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
The ministry added that it continues to develop systems aimed at enhancing healthcare quality, improving the use of medical resources and ensuring that healthcare services remain safe, effective and patient-centred.