Abu Dhabi: Special Olympics UAE held an awarding ceremony today to honour 11 healthcare facilities recognised as Unified Healthcare Providers for their dedication to improving healthcare services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The event, which took place at Sofitel Abu Dhabi, not only celebrated the outstanding achievements of these facilities but also recognised 38 partners who have played a pivotal role in enabling Special Olympics UAE to retain the Healthy Community title, including ADNOC, the strategic partner of Special Olympics UAE’s health programmes.
According to Emirates News Agency, the ceremony also marked the graduation of a new cohort of Health Ambassadors who have completed their training to become advocates for inclusion and healthy living. Dr. Timothy Shriver, Chairman of Board of Directors, Special Olympics International, and Ayman Abdel Wahab, President and Managing Director, Special Olympics MENA, attended the event and highlighted the significance of Uni
fied healthcare as a key pillar in supporting people of determination.
Among this year’s awardees were Samaya Specialised Centre – Bateen and Khalifa City branches, Irish Wellness Medical Centre, Burjeel Medical City and Millennium Hospital. The Unified Healthcare Providers Programme, launched in 2021, represents a collaborative effort between Special Olympics UAE and various health authorities to equip medical professionals with the expertise necessary to deliver specialised care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
During the ceremony, Talal Al Hashemi, National Director, Special Olympics UAE, said, ‘The health of people of determination is a national priority, clearly evidenced by the collaborative efforts of government and private entities. Health entities across the UAE are committed to offering comprehensive care that fosters inclusion and improves quality of life, ensuring that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are fully integrated into society.
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