Enhancing the Maternity Patient Experience in UAE Hospitals

Report Summary / Abstract The prospective areas of enhancing the maternity patient experience in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) public and private hospitals are explored in terms of the working paper. The maternity experience of patients influences clinical outcomes, maternal mental health, breastfeeding success, and trust in the health system. Patient safety and quality healthcare measures have been an area of heavy investment in the UAE, and national strategies are focused on an approach that is respectful and person-centered; however, regional research has indicated variation in patient satisfaction regarding waiting times, responsiveness, communication, and cultural/language needs. This study uses a working-paper approach to synthesize international evidence on determinants of positive maternity experiences (communication, continuity of carer, respectful care, environment, and information continuity) with UAE specifics of policy. It suggests a realistic, evidence-informed intervention package for UAE hospitals: (1) the standardized pathways of communications and informed consent; (2) the staffing models and continuity (midwife-led pathway where possible); (3) cultural and language mediation services; (4) postpartum stay-related environmental and hospitality improvements; and (5) regular measurements of the patient experience and feedback loops based on performance indicators. Implementation guidance, a plan of evaluation (mixed-methods pilot), and a KPI set are added where the institutions can test and scale interventions. It ends the paper with managerial implications: steps in operations, training emphasis for staff, mechanisms for involving patients, and proposed follow-on research to verify impact and economics of scale.