As insurance premiums and co-payments rise for some UAE residents, healthcare experts are cautioning against the growing trend of postponing medical visits, warning that short-term savings can result in serious health risks and significantly higher costs in the long run.
Medical professionals say routine check-ups, diagnostic tests, and follow-up appointments are increasingly being delayed as patients attempt to manage out-of-pocket expenses. While skipping a consultation may appear financially sensible, specialists warn that it often allows minor or manageable conditions to worsen, leading to emergency treatment or hospitalisation that could have been avoided.
Doctors across both public and private healthcare facilities report seeing patients present with advanced stages of illnesses that could have been treated earlier through preventive care. Conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, respiratory infections, and gastrointestinal issues are among those most commonly affected when regular monitoring is postponed.
Health insurers and clinicians alike emphasise that preventive care remains one of the most cost-effective aspects of healthcare. Routine screenings and early diagnostic tests not only reduce long-term treatment costs but also improve recovery outcomes and quality of life.
Experts also note that delaying care can lead to increased pressure on emergency departments, as patients eventually seek treatment only when symptoms become severe. Emergency visits and inpatient care typically carry far higher costs than outpatient consultations, resulting in greater financial strain for both individuals and the healthcare system.
Some healthcare providers in the UAE are encouraging patients to better understand their insurance coverage, including benefits related to preventive care, chronic disease management, and annual health screenings. Many insurance plans still offer full or partial coverage for early interventions, making it important for residents to stay informed rather than avoid care altogether.
Doctors stress that early medical attention not only saves money but can also be life-saving. “Early care is safer, smarter, and often cheaper,” specialists say, urging residents not to compromise their health due to short-term financial concerns.
As healthcare costs continue to evolve, experts agree that maintaining regular medical visits remains one of the most effective ways to prevent complications, reduce long-term expenses, and ensure overall well-being.
