UAE (MNN) ― Infant mortality rates that stood at 50-percent in the United Arab Emirates are now less than one-percent, and maternal mortality is almost unheard of. That's the legacy of CURE International.
David Printy runs their Oasis Hospital which is located in the city of Al Ain, about 160 kilometers east of the capital city Abu Dhabi. Since 1960, the Oasis Hospital has served the citizens of the U.A.E., specializing in maternal health. The facility was donated to CURE International in 2006 and continues to deliver the same high quality care for which the hospital has always been known.
Printy says, "There's a strong tradition and a high level of trust," which builds into credibility and opens doors for more. "We are predominantly a hospital for women and children. We deliver over 300 babies a month. We have a very active pediatric clinic, and we are a teaching hospital of the UAE medical school. It's kind of a model for what we're doing in Kabul, Afghanistan right now."
Credited as the birthplace of quality healthcare for the nation, Oasis needs more room. "The new facility will include patient care that supports the preservation of traditional practices of UAE family life and culture. Oasis Hospital has appointed an advisory board of leading men and women of the local community who will advise and guide the design," says Printy.
He added, "We are now embarking on construction of a complete new 200 bed, state-of-the-art hospital for the 21st century."
The mission of this hospital won't change. It is a clear demonstration of how successful "building bridges" can be between the Western and Arab worlds.
Printy says their patients know they're Christians. They also make sure the Gospel is available. "One of the things for which we have permission is that in each patient's room, there is an Arabic translation of Luke. And they also have an Arabic translation of the JESUS film. The government has allowed us to have those in the rooms, and if the patients choose to take them with them, they're free to do that."
Last year, the hospital distributed more than 500 Scripture portions and 600 copies of the JESUS film. Pray that these seeds planted will take root.
