Dubai Dental Clinic Earns Certified Autism Center™ Status

UAE: The Dubai Health Dental Hospital Pediatric Dentistry Clinic has become the first healthcare facility in Dubai to earn the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation. This recognition, awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), highlights the clinic’s commitment to inclusive and accessible care for autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals.

“The CAC designation represents our ‘Patient First’ promise and reinforces our dedication to serving every member of our community with empathy and excellence,” said Dr. Anas AlSalami, Program Director of Pediatric Dentistry at Dubai Health Dental Hospital.

A Step Towards Dubai’s Vision of Inclusivity

This achievement aligns with Dubai’s broader initiative to become the first Certified Autism Destination™ (CAD) in the Eastern Hemisphere, led by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. The CAD program recognizes communities offering certified lodging, recreation, and healthcare facilities designed to make autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals feel welcome and supported.

To earn the CAC designation, 80% of the clinic’s patient-facing staff completed IBCCES training, equipping them with specialized knowledge and skills to cater to diverse patient needs.

Addressing the Needs of Autistic Individuals

For autistic individuals, hospital visits can be fraught with challenges, including sensory sensitivities, communication difficulties, and untrained staff. These barriers often lead families to struggle in finding healthcare facilities capable of accommodating their needs.

“Autistic patients are more prone to hospitalization due to co-occurring medical conditions and sensory challenges,” said Myron Pincomb, CEO and board chairman of IBCCES. “The Dubai Health Dental Hospital Pediatric Dentistry Clinic’s dedication to inclusivity and accessibility serves as a model for healthcare facilities globally.”

The IBCCES certification ensures that medical professionals are trained to deliver compassionate and effective care tailored to autistic patients. This includes creating sensory-friendly environments and employing strategies to ease anxiety during visits.

Sensory-Friendly Dental Care

The Pediatric Dentistry Clinic offers an environment designed to accommodate sensory-sensitive patients. Features include calming lighting, soothing music, and designated quiet areas to reduce sensory overload. Dental professionals are extensively trained in working with autistic children, using clear communication and gradual desensitization techniques to help patients feel at ease.

Additionally, individualized treatment plans cater to each child’s unique needs, incorporating visual aids, social stories, and behavior management strategies to enhance engagement and comfort. “By equipping our team with specialized knowledge and skills, we aim to ensure every child receives the best possible oral care tailored to their needs,” Dr. AlSalami emphasized.

Supporting a Global Mission

IBCCES has been a leader in cognitive disorder training for over 20 years, providing evidence-based resources and certifications for professionals in healthcare, education, and corporate sectors. Its CertifiedAutismCenter.com platform offers a free online resource for families to locate certified facilities and professionals worldwide.

The Dubai Health Dental Hospital Pediatric Dentistry Clinic’s achievement marks a significant milestone in advancing healthcare inclusivity. As Dubai progresses toward becoming a Certified Autism Destination™, this accomplishment sets a precedent for other healthcare facilities to follow.

“We hope this inspires more organizations to prioritize inclusivity and accessibility,” said Pincomb. “It’s an honor to support Dubai in its mission to create a welcoming environment for all.”