Document Title:

HAAD Standard for Scope of Practice for Traditional Complementary

and Alternative Medicine (TCAM) Practitioners

Document Ref. Number:

TCAM/HFL/1.0

Version

1.0

Approval Date:

23/03/14

Effective Date:

23/03/14

Last Reviewed:

October 2012

Next Review:

December 2016

Revision History

Version 0.9 Published 2012

Document Owner:

Health Regulation Division

Applies to:

HAAD Licensed Healthcare Providers in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi

Classification:

Public

1. Purpose
1.1. This Standard defines the permitted professions as per HAAD Personal Qualification
Requirements for those practitioners wishing to practise Traditional, Complementary and
Alternative Medicine (TCAM) in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and describes the service
specifications for healthcare facilities wishing to provide TCAM services. It aims to ensure
that safe and quality TCAM practices are provided to members of the Abu Dhabi
community.
2. Scope
2.1. This Standard applies to applicants eligible to apply for HAAD licence to practise TCAM
professions and healthcare providers wishing to engage the services of these
practitioners in the emirate of Abu Dhabi.
3.

Definitions
3.1 HAAD recognises the W.H.O definition for Traditional Medicine which for the purposes of
this Standard is inclusive of the terms Traditional, Complementary and Alternative used
collectively by HAAD to refer to a broad set of healthcare practices that are part of the UAE
traditional medicine practices and those that are not part of the UAEs own traditional
practices and are not integrated into the dominant healthcare system, but which have been
supported by evidence deemed by HAAD to be of acceptable quality and safety.
3.2 Acupuncture: A procedure used in or adapted from Chinese medical practice in which
specific body areas are pierced with fine needles for therapeutic purposes or to relieve pain or
produce regional anesthesia;
3.3 Chiropractic: A system of therapy in which disease is considered the result of abnormal
function of the nervous system. The method of treatment usually involves manipulation of the
spinal column and other body structures;

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3.4 Homeopathy: A system for treating disease based on the administration of minute doses of
a drug that in massive amounts produces symptoms in healthy individuals similar to those of
the disease itself;
3.5 TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine): Chinese-based alternative therapies, including
acupuncture, certain forms of massage, and some herbal remedies;
3.6 Ayuverda (Traditional Indian Medicine): The ancient Hindu science of health and medicine
and
includes prevention and treatment of diseases through consultation, prescriptions,
lifestyle interventions, detoxification therapies, breathing exercises and meditation;
3.7 Naturopathy: A system of therapy that relies on natural remedies, such as sunlight
supplemented with diet and massage, to treat illness;
3.8 Osteopathy: A system of medicine based on the theory that disturbances in the
musculoskeletal system affect other bodily parts, causing many disorders that can be
corrected by various manipulative techniques in conjunction with conventional medical,
surgical, pharmacological, and other therapeutic procedures;
3.9 Unani: A system that is based around the concepts of the four humours: Phlegm
(Balgham), Blood (Dam), Yellow bile (Safra) and Black bile (Saud') including but not limited to
diet therapy, nutritional therapy, life style modification, stress management, cupping,
diaphoresis, massage, purging, emesis and exercise;
3.10 Hijama: is the name in Arab traditional medicine for wet cupping, where blood is
drawn by vacuum from a small skin incision for therapeutic purposes; and
4. TCAM Professions
4.1. All professionals wishing to engage in providing healthcare services, including TCAM
services, must be licensed by HAAD. Appendices 1, 2, 3 and 4 set out the requirements
for the TCAM providers and professionals covered by this Standard.
4.2. TCAM professions covered by this Standard include:
4.2.1. Acupuncture Practitioner;
4.2.2. Chiropractic Practitioner;
4.2.3. Homeopathy Practitioner;
4.2.4. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Practitioner;
4.2.5. Ayurveda Practitioner (Traditional Indian Medicine);
4.2.6. Naturopathy Practitioner;
4.2.7. Osteopathy Practitioner;
4.2.8. Unani Medicine Practitioner;
4.2.9. Hijama Practitioner;
4.2.10.Hijama Therapist.
5. General Duties for HAAD Licensed TCAM Practitioners and their employing healthcare
providers
5.1. As per the HAAD PQR requirements, each HAAD Licensed TCAM professional must:
5.1.1. comply with the HAAD licensure and examination and continuing professional
development and medical education requirements;
5.1.2. have medical and professional liability insurance;
5.1.3. only use the professional title granted by the HAAD Professional Licensing
Committee;
5.1.4. limit his/her services and practices to the respective HAAD approved TCAM scope
of practice pertaining to his/her profession and licence as defined in this HAAD
Standard;
5.1.5. comply with any restrictions imposed under his/her licence;

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5.1.6. comply with Appendices 1, 2, 3 and 4 to this Standard on the Requirements for
Traditional Complementary and Alternative Medicine (TCAM) Facility types and subtypes and requirement for HAAD licensed healthcare professionals;
5.1.7. comply with HAAD policies and standards on patient informed consent, managing
patient medical records, including developing effective recording systems,
maintaining patient records; maintaining confidentiality, privacy and security of
patient information; educating patients on services provided and satisfying the
requirements of patients rights and responsibilities charter;
5.1.8. abide by the HAAD Code of Practice for TCAM professionals (Appendices 1 and 2);
5.1.9. not prescribe any prescription-only-medicines to patients, unless authorized to do
so under the HAAD issued licence to practise the profession;
5.1.10.when recommending or prescribing general sale or over the counter
complementary medical products, only do so from the HAAD Approved Products List;
5.1.11.not alter and/or change a patients treatment protocol or prescription issued by a
HAAD licensed physician or specialist; when a patients health improves as a result of
TCAM treatment, the TCAM practitioner must not change, alter and/or stop the
treating physicians prescribed medication or it dosages;
5.1.12.not treat communicable diseases. TCAM practitioners must be aware of and
comply with the notifiable communicable diseases and the HAAD requirement to
notify as per the HAAD Standards for Reporting Public Health Statistics;
5.1.13.take appropriate actions and precautions to ensure infection control and act in
accordance with HAAD Policies and standards for infection control (HAAD EHSMS
Standards);
5.1.14.not sell or dispense any prescribed medication or advertise medical products or
preparations from their own practice clinic unless permitted to do so by the HAAD;
5.1.15.following examination of, and where the TCAM practitioner suspects disease
condition from the patients history, signs and symptoms, then he/she must advise
the patient to consult a HAAD licensed physician;
5.2. Each healthcare provider employing or engaging the services of a HAAD licensed TCAM
practitioner must ensure that:
5.2.1. TCAM practitioners employed by them comply with the general duties detailed in
this Standard (paragraphs under 5), and that they grant and manage privileges of
their TCAM practitioners in accordance with the HAAD Standard for Clinical
Privileging Framework;
5.2.2. they provide medical and professional liability insurance to all TCAM practitioners
employed at their facilities;
5.2.3. they manage and report on adverse events in accordance with the requirements
of the HAAD Standard for Adverse Events Management and Reporting in the emirate
of Abu Dhabi;
5.2.4. they comply with HAAD audits, and cooperate with the HAAD authorised
inspectors and auditors; and
5.3. TCAM Providers must comply with all HAAD licensing requirements, as they apply to their
respective practice.
6. Enforcement and Sanctions
6.1 TCAM providers must comply with the terms and requirements of this Standard, the
HAAD Standard Provider Contract and the HAAD Data Standards and Procedures. HAAD may
impose sanctions in relation to any breach of requirements under this standard in accordance
with the Complaints, Investigations, Regulatory Action and Sanctions Policy, Chapter IX,
Healthcare Regulator Policy Manual Version 1.0.
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7. TCAM Scopes of Practice

7.1. Scope of Practice for Acupuncture Practitioner
7.1.1. Acupuncture treatment involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific
sites (acupuncture points) along the body's meridians to clear energy blockages and
encourage the normal flow of qi through the individual.
7.1.2. The Practice of Acupuncture may include activities that involve:
7.1.2.1. Physical examination,
7.1.2.2. History taking,
7.1.2.3. Inspection and tongue diagnosis,
7.1.2.4. Palpation and pulse taking,
7.1.2.5. Auscultation and olfaction,
7.1.2.6. The stimulation of points, areas of the body or substances in the body
using qi, needles with or without electrical stimulation
(using clean needle technique), moxibustion, heat and cold, colour, light, lasers,
or suction (cupping - dry or wet);
7.1.2.7. Therapeutic exercises, qi exercises, breathing techniques, and meditation;
7.1.2.8. Musculoskeletal manipulation consistent with their training (Tui Na);
7.1.2.9. Differentiation of syndromes according to eight principles, the theory of
visceral manifestations (zang-fu), the theory of qi and blood, and theory of
meridians and collateral vessels;
7.1.2.10. Evaluation of the sensitivity of patient to the acupuncture treatment and
the probable reaction and response of the patient to administration of the
treatment.
8.

Scope of Practice for Chiropractic Practitioner

8.1 Chiropractic treatment involves diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the neuro musculoskeletal system and the effect of these disorders on general health. There is
an emphasis on manual techniques, including joint adjustment and /or
manipulation, with a particular focus on subluxation
8.2 The Practice of Chiropractic includes activities that involve:
8.2.1. Physical examination and history taking;
8.2.2. Requesting clinical laboratory tests and physiological function tests;
8.2.3. Requesting diagnostic imaging tests, consistent with their licence;
8.2.4. Treatment interventions designed to correct neurological, skeletal, or soft tissue
dysfunction by employing particular chiropractic adjustments and/or
manipulations (with particular attention to the spine, skull and pelvis) and
applying hot or cold hydrotherapy; trigger point therapy; electrotherapy;
8.2.5. Dietary and nutritional counselling; therapeutic exercise.

9. Scope of Practice for Homeopathy Practitioner:

9.1 Homeopathy involves diagnosis and treatment by using substances capable of causing the
same symptoms, syndromes and conditions when administered to healthy people. The
basic principles of treatment are: law of similarity, direction of cure, principle of single
remedy, the theory of minimum diluted dose and the therapy of chronic diseases.
9.2 The Practice of Homeopathy may include activities that involve:

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9.2.1. Physical examination and requested laboratory examinations consistent with their
education and training, for diagnostic purposes, including clinical laboratory tests
and physiological function tests;
9.2.2. Request diagnostic imaging studies consistent with their licence;
9.2.3. Administer, order or prescribe homeopathic medicines (pharmaceutical dosage
form) and Over- the -counter medicines registered with HAAD approved products
list;
9.2.4. Provide nutritional, dietary and preventive medicine advice;
9.2.5. Education regarding physical, emotional and spiritual balance as it relates to
Homeopathic Medicine.
10. Scope of Practice for TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) Practitioner
10.1Traditional Chinese Medicine involves unique theories and methods for health
enhancement and treatment. There are many modalities included in traditional
Chinese medicine, such as Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture and moxibustion.
10.2 The Practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine may include activities that involve:
10.2.1. Physical examination and requested laboratory examinations consistent with their
education and training, for diagnostic purposes, including, clinical laboratory tests,
and physiological function tests;
10.2.2. Refer to HAAD Licensed physician appropriately qualified and privileged to assess
patients and order diagnostic imaging as required;
10.2.3. Administer, order or prescribe or perform the following:
10.2.3.1. stimulation of points, areas of the body or substances in the body using
qi, needles with or without electrical stimulation (using clean needle
technique), moxibustion, heat and cold, colour, light, lasers, or suction
(cupping wet or dry);
10.2.3.2. Therapeutic exercises, qi exercises, breathing techniques, and meditation;
10.2.3.3. Nutritional, dietary and preventive medicine advice in terms of Traditional
Chinese medicine;
10.2.3.4. Education regarding physical, emotional and spiritual balance as it relates
to Traditional Chinese Medicine;
10.2.3.5. Prescription of herbal medicines (pharmaceutical dosage form) and Over
the Counter medicines included in the HAAD approved list of products; and
10.2.3.6. Musculoskeletal manipulation consistent with Traditional Chinese
Medicine training (Tui Na).
7.1.3. 11. Scope of Practice for Ayurveda (Traditional Indian Medicine) Practitioner:
11.1 Ayurveda (Traditional Indian Medicine) involves prevention and treatment of illness
through lifestyle interventions, detoxification and natural therapies;
11.2 The Practice of Traditional Indian Medicine may include activities that involve:
11.2.1. Physical examination and requested laboratory examinations consistent with
their education and licence, for diagnostic purposes, including clinical
laboratory tests, and physiological function tests;
11.2.2. Refer to HAAD Licensed physician appropriately qualified and privileged to
assess patients and order diagnostic imaging as required;
11.2.3. Administer, order, prescribe or perform the following:
11.2.3.1 Prescription of herbal medicines (pharmaceutical dosage form) and
Over the Counter medicines from the HAAD approved products list;
11.2.3.2 Therapeutic yoga exercises, detoxification therapies, breathing
exercises, and meditation;
Page 5 of 23

11.2.3.3 Nutritional, dietary and preventive medicine advice in terms of

Traditional Indian medicine;
11.2.3.4 Education regarding physical, emotional and spiritual balance as it
relates to Traditional Indian Medicine;
11.2.4.6 Musculoskeletal manipulation and /or therapeutic massage consistent
with training.
12. Scope of Practice for Naturopathy Practitioner:
12.1 Naturopathy involves the prevention, treatment and the promotion of optimal health
through the use of therapeutic methods and modalities which encourage the selfhealing process, the vis medicatrix naturae;
12.2. The Practice of Naturopathy includes:
12.2.1. Physical examination and requested laboratory examinations consistent with
their education and licence, for diagnostic purposes, including, clinical
laboratory tests, and physiological function tests;
12.2.2. Refer to HAAD Licensed physician appropriately qualified and privileged to
assess patients and order diagnostic imaging as required;
12.2.3. Administer, order, prescribe or perform the following:
12.2.3.1 Nutritional, dietary and preventive medicine advice in terms of
Naturopathy;
12.2.3.2 Recommendation of food, extracts of food, nutraceuticals, vitamins,
amino acids, minerals, enzymes, botanicals and their extracts, botanical
medicines and dietary supplements;
12.2.3.3. Hot or cold hydrotherapy; naturopathic physical medicine;
naturopathic osseous manipulation, electromagnetic energy; colon
hydrotherapy; and therapeutic exercise;
12.2.3.4 Education regarding physical, emotional and spiritual balance, as it
relates to Naturopathic medicine.
13. Scope of Practice for Osteopathy Practitioner:
13.1. Osteopathy involves an approach to healthcare that emphasizes the role of the
musculoskeletal system in health and disease. Osteopathy recognizes the importance of
the link between the structure of the human body and the way it functions and the
practice focus on the bodys skeleton and joint function along with the underlying
muscles, soft tissue and internal organs.
13.2. The Practice of Osteopathy may include activities that involve:
13.2.1. Physical examination, requesting laboratory examinations clinical
laboratory tests, and physiological function tests;
13.2.2. Request diagnostic imaging studies consistent with their licence;
13.2.3. Order, prescribe or perform the following:
13.2.4. Cranial Osteopathy; electro-therapy; therapeutic exercises; osteopathic
techniques including direct techniques such as high velocity low amplitude thrust,
articulatory, general osteopathic technique, and muscle energy; indirect
techniques including functional techniques, counter strain; balancing techniques
including balanced ligamentous tension, and ligamentous articulatory strain;
combined techniques including myofascial/fascial release, Still technique,
osteopathy in the cranial field, involuntary mechanism, and visceral techniques;
reflex based techniques such as Chapmans reflexes, trigger points,
neuromuscular techniques (NMT); and fluid based techniques such as lymphatic
pump techniques; and
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13.2.5 Health education and health counselling.

14. Scope of Practice for Unani Medicine Practitioner:
14.1. Unani Medicine encompasses a range of practices: herbal medicine, diet therapy,
nutritional therapy, life style modification, stress management, cupping, diaphoresis, massage,
purging, emesis and exercise;
14.2. The Practice of Unani may include activities that involve:
14.2.1. Physical examination and request laboratory examinations consistent with
their education and licence, for diagnostic purposes, including clinical laboratory
tests, and physiological function tests;
14.2.2. Administer, order, prescribe or perform the following:
14.2.2.1. Nutritional, dietary and preventive medicine advice in terms of
Unani medicine;
14.2.2.2. Education regarding physical, emotional and spiritual balance, as it
relates to Unani medicine;
14.2.2.3. Herbal medicine, diet therapy, nutritional therapy, life style
modification;
14.2.2.4. Management, cupping, diaphoresis, diuresis, Turkish bath,
therapeutic massage;
14.2.2.5. Purging, emesis and exercise.
15.

Scope of Practice for Hijama Practitioner and Hijama Therapist:

15.1 Hijama is the name in Arab traditional medicine for wet cupping, where blood is
drawn by vacuum from a small skin incision for therapeutic purposes. It may involve the
application of suction cups to the skin to draw out stagnant, congested blood, as well as
other stagnant or morbid humors. Usually, the cups are made of glass, but they can also
be made of bamboo, bone, horn or metal;
15.2. The Practice may include activities that involve:
15.2.1 Physical examination, proficiency in making a simple but competent
examination of patient leading to a reasonable assessment of the severity of
symptoms and signs;
15.2.2 the preparation/stimulation of points, areas of the body or substances in
the body using cups; (dry or wet); and
15.3 Education regarding physical, emotional and spiritual balance, as it relates to
Hijama Practice.

16. Use of Medical devices

16.1 All medical Devices used must be approved for use in Abu Dhabi, and must be used
only by the licensed practitioner, who must have the appropriate training, and must use
the device in accordance with its intended purpose, the manufacturers
recommendations and in accordance with good industry hygiene and infection control
practices;
16.2 When using medical devices, the licensed practitioner must not compromise the
clinical condition or the safety of patients, or the safety and health of users or, when
present, other persons. The practitioner must assess any risks which may be associated
with their use, and ensure that such risk is considered minimal or acceptable when
weighed against the benefits to the patient and can be managed in a manner that
protects their health and safety;
16.3 All medical devices must be registered according to Ministry of Health requirements
in compliance with Federal Law no. 4, UAE Medical Devices Registration Guidelines
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based upon existing UAE Federal Law 4 (1983), [and included on the HAAD approved list
of products].

Page 8 of 23

Appendix 1 - HAAD standards on credentialing requirements for approved list of TCAM specialties
1. Acupuncture
Practitioner Eligibility Criteria
In determining the eligibility of an applicant for licensing with Health Authority - Abu
Dhabi (HAAD) as Acupuncture Practitioner, the applicant must comply with all the
following requirements:
a) A professional degree of Acupuncture: Bachelor of Medicine (Acupuncture)
with minimum 5 years full time duration including internship.
b) Current license/registration to practice in home country or country of last
employment.
c) Experience: Not less than 2 years after internship.
OR

a) A Licentiate from an accredited Acupuncture program of minimum two

years full time or the part time equivalent with not less than 2500
teaching hours / Certification from National Certification Commission for
Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).
b) Current license/ Registration to practice in home country or country of last
employment
c) Experience: Not less than 3 years after internship.

Physician privileged to practice Acupuncture

a) Certification from an Accredited Acupuncture training program of not less
than 200 hours/one year.
b) Current license/ Registration to practice in home country or country of last
employment.
c) Holding a valid HAAD license to practice as a physician.
2. Chiropractic
Practitioner Eligibility criteria
In determining the eligibility of an applicant for licensing with Health Authority - Abu
Dhabi (HAAD) as Chiropractic Practitioner, the applicant must comply with all the
following requirements:
a) A professional degree of Chiropractic Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C),
honours degree or undergraduate, masters or equivalent of not less than 4
years full time duration with minimum 4200 student/teacher contact
hours.
b) Current license/registration to practice in home country or country of last
employment.
c) Experience: Not less than 2 years after internship.
Physician privileged to practice Chiropractic
a) Accredited Chiropractic training program of not less than 1800 hours over a
two or three years full time or part time program including not less than
1000 hours of supervised clinical experience.
b) Current license/ Registration to practice in home country or country of last
employment.
c) Holding a valid HAAD license to practice as a physician.
Page 9 of 23

3.

Homeopathy
Practitioner eligibility criteria
In determining the eligibility of an applicant for licensing with Health Authority - Abu
Dhabi (HAAD) as Homeopathic Practitioner, the applicant must comply with all the
following requirements:
a) Professional Degree of Homeopathy (BHMS- Bachelor in Homeopathic
Medicine and surgery)/ licentiate from an accredited Homeopathic program of
not less than 5 years (including internship).
b) Current license/registration to practice in home country or country of last
employment.
c) Experience: Not less than 2 years after internship.
OR
a) To have certified from an accredited Homeopathy program of not less than 3
years full time program.
b) Current license/ Registration to practice in home country or country of last
employment.
c) Experience: Not less than 4 years after completion of the course.
Physician privileged to practice Homeopathy
a) Successful completion of an accredited Homeopathic program of not less than
1 year full time duration.
b) Current license/ Registration to practice in home country or country of last
employment.
c) Holding a valid HAAD license to practice as a physician.

4.

Osteopathy
Practitioner eligibility criteria
In determining the eligibility of an applicant for licensing with Health Authority - Abu
Dhabi (HAAD) as Osteopathy Practitioner, the applicant must comply with all the following
requirements:
a) Professional Degree of Osteopathy: Diploma of Osteopathy (D.O) / -Bachelor
of Osteopathic Medicine (B.Ost Med.)/ BSc Hons. Osteopathy or equivalent of
not less than 4 years full time duration comprising not less than 1000 hours of
supervised clinical training (internship).
b) Current license/registration to practice in home country or country of last
employment.
c) Experience: Not less than 2 years after internship.
Physician privileged to practice Osteopathy
a) Successful completion of an accredited Osteopathy program of not less than
one year full time or part time equivalent of not less than 1000 hours
including supervised clinical training.
b) Current license/ Registration to practice in home country or country of last
employment.
c) Holding a valid HAAD license to practice as a physician.
Page 10 of 23

5.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Practitioner eligibility criteria
In determining the eligibility of an applicant for licensing with Health Authority - Abu
Dhabi (HAAD) as Chinese Medicine Practitioner, the applicant must comply with all the
following requirements:

OR

a) Professional degree of Traditional Chinese Medicine (B.TCM - Bachelor of

Traditional Chinese Medicine) from a recognized University of minimum five
years full time duration including one year internship.
b) Current license/registration to practice in home country or country of last
employment.
c) Experience: Not less than 2 years after internship.
a) A Licentiate from an accredited Traditional Chinese Medicine Education
program of three to four year years full time or equivalent of not less than total
of 2,400 hours (consisting of 1,500 hours of theory and laboratory/clinical
practice and 900 hours of clinical practicum).
b) Current license/ Registration to practice in home country or country of last
employment.
c) Experience: Not less than 4 years after completion of the course.

Physician privileged to practice Traditional Chinese Medicine

a) Successful completion of an accredited training program in TCM of two to
three years full time or equivalent of not less than total of 1300 hours
(Consisting of 800hours of theory and laboratory/clinical practice and 500
hours of supervised clinical practicum).
b) Current license/ Registration to practice in home country or country of last
employment.
c) Holding a valid HAAD license to practice as a physician.
6.

Ayurveda (Traditional Indian Medicine)

Practitioner eligibility criteria
In determining the eligibility of an applicant for licensing with Health Authority - Abu
Dhabi (HAAD) as Ayurveda Practitioner, the applicant must comply with all the following
requirements:
a) Professional Degree of Indian medicine - Ayurveda (BAMS- Bachelor of
Ayurvedic Medicine and surgery) or equivalent of not less than 5 years full time
duration including internship (comprising not less than 4500 hours of
classroom theory and practical sessions and 1000 hours of internship training).
b) Current license/registration to practice in home country or country of last
employment.
c) Experience: Not less than 2 years after internship.
OR
a) Licentiate from an accredited Ayurveda Medicine program over a three to four
years full time / equivalent, comprising not less than 2500 hours (classroom

Page 11 of 23

theory and practical sessions) followed by 500 hours of supervised internship

training.
b) Current license/ Registration to practice in home country or country of last
employment.
c) Experience: Not less than 4 years after internship.
Physician privileged to practice Traditional Indian Medicine (TIM)
a) Successful completion of an accredited Homeopathy program of not less than
one year full time duration.
b) Current license/ Registration to practice in home country or country of last
employment.
c) Holding a valid HAAD license to practice as a physician.
7.

Naturopathy
Practitioner eligibility criteria
In determining the eligibility of an applicant for licensing with Health Authority - Abu
Dhabi (HAAD) as Naturopathy Practitioner, the applicant must comply with all the
following requirements:
a) Professional Degree of Naturopathy (ND - Doctor of Naturopathy / BNYSBachelor of Naturopathy and Yogic Sciences) or equivalent of not less than 4
years full time duration including supervised clinical training.
b) Current License/registration to Practice in home country or country of last
employment.
c) Experience: Not less than 2 years after internship.
Physician privileged to practice Naturopathy
a) Completion of an accredited Naturopathy training program over a two or
three years full-time or part-time period of not less than 1000 hours, including
not less than 400 hours of supervised clinical training.
b) Current license/ Registration to practice in home country or country of last
employment.
c) Holding a valid HAAD license to practice as a physician.

8.

Unani
Practitioner eligibility criteria
In determining the eligibility of an applicant for licensing with Health Authority - Abu
Dhabi (HAAD) as Unani Practitioner, the applicant must comply with all the following
requirements:
a) Professional Degree of Unani (BUMS- Bachelor in Unani Medicine and surgery /
BEMS- Bachelor in Eastern Medicine and Surgery / Diploma Fazil ut Tibb Wal
Jarahat) or equivalent of not less than 4 years full time duration including
supervised clinical practicum.
b) Current license/registration to practice in home country or country of last
employment.
c) Experience: Not less than 2 years after internship.
Physician privileged to practice Unani
a) Successful completion of an accredited training program in Unani Medicine of
two years full time or part time equivalent of not less than total of 1500 hours
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(theory and practical) followed by 750 hours of supervised training in a

hospital or recognized medical centre.
b) Current license/ Registration to practice in home country or country of last
employment.
c) Holding a valid HAAD license to practice as a physician.
9

Hijama
Practitioner eligibility criteria
In determining the eligibility of an applicant for licensing with Health Authority - Abu
Dhabi (HAAD) as Hijama Practitioner, the applicant must comply with all the following
requirements:
a) Hold
a
valid
HAAD
health
professional
license
(in
any
medical/paramedical/allied health specialties).
b) Submit proof of having completed a satisfactory training program offered
through a licensed and/or competent Hijama practitioner or therapist and/or
institute as deemed appropriate by HAAD.

Hijama Therapist eligibility criteria (only for UAE Nationals):

a) For UAE nationals who do not meet the stated educational requirements, but
have been traditionally practising Hijama, the designated HAAD panel reviews
the candidate portfolio, and recommends the application for HAAD licensure,
if the candidate meets the professional standard as defined by the panel.
b) The candidate must be able to prove that he has been traditionally practising
Hijama for a period of not less than 2 years and must possess a certification
attested from court in this regard.

Page 13 of 23

Appendix 2 Governance
1. Codes of Practice
TCAM practitioners must practice TCAM services in accordance with the requirements of this
HAAD Standard, and the relevant HAAD Policies and Standards to ensure that they provide safe
and quality TCAM services for their patients. It is a requirement that TCAM practitioners apply the
principles of professionalism and ethics at all times; for this purpose, this Code of Practice
describes the professional and ethical duties for TCAM practitioners, which aims to ensure the
delivery of quality, safe and ethical standards of treatment and care.
2. Ethical Practice:
TCAM practitioners must:
2.1 Practice in a manner consistent with this code of practice.
2.2 Advocate protecting human health, safety and rights and report on acts that violate
these rights.
2.3 Maintain confidentiality and security of written, verbal and electronic information.
2.4 Respect and maintain the clients right to privacy and dignity.
2.5 Respect and demonstrate sensitivity to diverse cultural and religious beliefs.
2.6 limit his/her services and practices to the respective HAAD approved TCAM scope of
practice pertaining to his/her profession and license as defined in this HAAD Standard;
2.7 provide comprehensive and accurate information to the patient about the treatment
allowing the patient to make an educated choice of treatment;
2.8 Make a valid assessment of the patients condition based on health history, physical
examination, laboratory and other diagnostic tests.
2.9 Communicate clearly and compassionately with the patient (or patient advocate on
their current state of health and wellbeing offering appropriate treatment
recommendation and advice;
2.10 Consult other healthcare professionals when their expertise is required.
2.11 Respond promptly and constructively to concerns, criticisms and complaints.
2.12 undertake regular self-assessment and review of own practice based on established
criteria through reflection, peer review, critical examination and evaluation;
2.13 Identify the need for updated knowledge base and skills for practice;
2.14 Actively seek new knowledge and skills to ensure ongoing professional development
and competency to practice;
2.15 Participate and maintain record of learning and professional development activities
attended.
2.16 TCAM practitioners licensed by HAAD and following the guidance in this code are
able to practice their profession safely, competently and ethically. This should be in
accordance with to the HAAD standard for complaints management and SOPs.
3. Good Communication:
3.1 TCAM practitioners must communicate effectively with their patients by:
3.1.1 Listening to patients and responding to their concerns and preferences.
3.1.2 Clearly communicating information required by the patient concerning their
wellbeing or treatment.
3.1.3 Regularly update the patient with the progress of their treatment and care.
3.2 Clarity of contract:
3.2.1 To ensure that the patient is always able to make informed choices TCAM
practitioners must give full and clear information about their service before
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commencing treatment. This shall include information about the nature of the
treatment, expenses, availability for advice, confidentiality and security of records.
3.3 Informed Consent; All practitioners must:
3.3.1 Comply with the HAAD Policy on Consent.
3.3.2 Communicate clearly with the patient information about the recommended
treatment, its benefits and alternative treatments.
4.

Records and record keeping:

4.1 All patient records must be maintained in accordance with HAAD standards managing
patient medical records, including developing effective record systems. Case notes must
be clear, accurate, legible and current. They must contain all the relevant information
relating to the progress of the case, for example, treatment given, whether the patient
has improved, maintained or deteriorated in their condition since they were last seen.
4.2 Basic requirements of case notes are as follows:
4.2.1Name, address, telephone number, date of birth, essential details of medical
history, dates and details of treatment given.
4.2.2 A record of medication, of any kind, taken by the patient, including the
names and address of the prescriber if available, also any diagnosis the patient has
received from a competent medical authority. Blood pressure, pulse rate readings,
other medical data such as weight loss, unusual bleeding or other information
must be provided by the patient.
4.2.3 Advice given to the patient either through clinical or telephonic
consultation that can help improve the patients known condition.
4.2.4 Decisions that the practitioner makes in the management of patients case,
such as referrals, disclosure of information or request for medical tests and
examinations.
4.2.5 Patients record on no account is transferred to a new
Practitioner/healthcare professional without the authorization of the patient.
Where a patient requests the record of their treatment in writing, or asks the
record to be forwarded to another Practitioner, it is important to send the relevant
information from the patients case notes as quickly as possible. The full original
documents should be retained in accordance with the requirements of HAAD
standards, UAE Federal Law number 10/2008 concerning Medical Liability and the
Cabinet decision number 33/2009 concerning the implementation list of the
Medical Liability .

5. Confidentiality and Disclosure:

5.1 All TCAM Practitioners must ensure patient information is kept in confidence;
maintaining privacy and security of information and must be in accordance with HAAD
policies and standards on patient confidentiality and the applicable federal and emirate
laws.
6. Referrals:
6.1 TCAM practitioners must comply with HAAD Patient Referral Policy. Referrals can only
be made with patients consent, unless it is related to life saving status.
6.2 Where consulting another practitioner is necessary, a TCAM practitioner must ensure
that they obtain the patients consent prior to doing so.
6.3 Patients may be referred to another TCAM Practitioner; such referrals must be
recorded at the time of recommendation of the new TCAM practitioner.
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6.4 The TCAM practitioner should not contact a medical doctor or another healthcare
practitioner unless the patients give their consent.
6.5 Details of all the recommended referrals to other health care professionals must be
recorded in the patients records at the time of referral.
6.6 The referring TCAM practitioner must ensure continuity of patient care when referred
to another practitioner by providing the necessary history of the case to the referred
practitioner.
7. Professional Practice and obligations
7.1 Practitioners must practice their work with due diligence. (Due diligence is the level of
judgment, care, prudence, determination and activity that a person would reasonably be
expected to do under particular circumstances).They must always limit their practice to
their area of expertise and within the HAAD defined scope of practice and must ensure
that treatment is not to be influenced by a clients gender, ethnicity, culture, beliefs,
sexuality, life style, age, social status or language difficulty.
8. Competence and Continuing Professional Development
8.1 Practitioners must regularly evaluate and monitor their clinical skills and actively
extend their knowledge base and their own personal development through continuing
professional development.
9. Notifiable diseases:
9.1 TCAM practitioners should be aware of those diseases which are notifiable under the
law and should take appropriate action. This should also be in accordance with HAAD Vital
statistics Standard.
10. Inappropriate use of patient related material:
10.1 TCAM practitioners must avoid recording on film, video or through digital
techniques, any material or imagery concerning a patient which might be regarded as
explicit, indecent or pornographic.
10.2 Practitioners may use film, tape recording or digital imagery of material concerning
a patient with the patients clear, informed, written consent to the precise use of the
material.
11. Child protection:
TCAM practitioners must safeguard and protect the health and wellbeing of child and
young people.
11.1When communicating with a child or young person, you must:
11.1.1 Treat them with respect and listen to their views
11.1.2 Answer their questions to the best of your ability.
11.1.3 Provide information appropriately.
11.2 It is also advisable to undertake the physical examination of child under 18 in the
presence of a parent
12. Contact with relatives / interested parties:
12.1 If a member of the patients family, friend or other person connected with the patient,
communicates with the TCAM practitioner; it is important to provide them with the
information required without breach of confidentiality of patients.
13. Financial and commercial dealings:
TCAM practitioners must:
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13.1 Be transparent on fees before commencing treatment.

13.2 Not exploit patients vulnerability or lack of medical knowledge when charging for
treatment or services.
13.3 Not encourage patients to give, lend or bequeath, money or gifts that will directly or
indirectly benefit their practice.
13.4 Not pressure patients or their families to make donations to other people or
organizations.
13.5 Not engage in fraudulent or abusive financial practices when billing for services.
14. Conflicts of interest:
14.1 Practitioners must act in their patients best interest when making referrals and when
providing or arranging treatment or care. They must t not ask or accept any inducement,
gifts or hospitality which may affect treatment or patient transfer.
14.2 If you have financial or commercial interests in organizations providing health care
or in pharmaceutical or other bio medical companies, these interests must not affect the
way you prescribe for, treat or refer patients
15. Research:
15.1TCAM practitioners intending to undertake research must seek authorization from
HAAD prior to conducting any research. It is a breach of the law if they conduct any
research without HAAD authorization. If authorised by HAAD to conduct health research
and/or involving patients, they must comply with HAAD Research Policies and standards
and abide by HAAD research ethics requirements patient consent to participate in
research and research governance.
15.2 The patient refusal to participate in research must not influence the care of the
patient in anyway
16. Arranging cover:
16.1 The TCAM practitioner should arrange effective hand-over procedures, involving
clear communication with health care colleagues when he/she is off duty.
17. Professional boundaries:
17.1 Unprofessional conduct breaches the law and is abusive.
18. Non acceptance or Termination of professional relationship:
18.1In the incidence of the patients unreasonable behavior, and termination of
treatment; alternative arrangements must be made promptly for the continuing care of
the patient, if they require it.
19. Publicity and Advertising:
19.1 Only can publish promotional materials if all the information contained in those
materials is factually and accurate advertisements must not contain misleading
information that is intended to or does in fact take advantage of the status or of the
vulnerability or lack of medical knowledge of any person by placing place unfair pressure
on that person to receive treatment.
20. Complaints:
20.1 TCAM practitioners licensed by HAAD and following the guidance in this code are able to
practice their profession safely, competently and ethically. This should be in accordance to HAAD
complaints standard and SOPs.

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Appendix 3 - Requirements for Traditional Complementary and Alternative Medicine (TCAM)

Facility types and sub-types and required HAAD licensed healthcare professionals
Traditional Complementary and Alternative Medicine (TCAM) Facility:
A health care facility that consists of a clinic or a group of clinics (two and above), staffed by
either HAAD licensed complementary Medicine Practitioner(s), or HAAD licensed Physician(s)
privileged to practice complementary medicine. These facilities provide consultation and/or
services on HAAD approved Traditional Complementary Medicine Specialties. It does not provide
emergency services, which must be referred to a hospital.
TCAM facilities can be established independently or within a healthcare facility providing various
conventional (allopathic) medical services. It must be operated and managed by a licensed TCAM
Practitioner or a licensed Physician privileged to practice traditional complementary medicine,
when established independently.
Requested laboratory examinations consistent with the TCAM specialty education and training is
part of the TCAM practice, however no laboratory or other medical diagnostic services are
permitted within an independent TCAM facility. If the TCAM centre is part of an outpatient
healthcare facility providing conventional (allopathic) medicine, then laboratory or other medical
diagnostic services may be provided, which must meet the HAAD Standards requirement and
criteria (such as the HAAD Clinical Laboratory Standards).
Subtypes
Subtypes must have either a HAAD licensed Physician or a HAAD licensed Practitioner in their
respective discipline to qualify for the issuance by HAAD of a TCAM facility Licence. For Hijama,
staffing by Therapists alone does not qualify for a TCAM facility Licence, except in the case where
the Therapist is an UAE national.
1. Acupuncture Centre
Acupuncture Centre provides treatment which may involve the insertion of fine, sterile needles
into specific sites (acupuncture points) along the body's meridians to clear energy blockages
and encourage the normal flow of qi through the individual. The Centre may also provide
services that involve the stimulation of points with or without electrical stimulation,
moxibustion, heat and cold, colour, light, lasers, or suction (cupping - dry or wet).
Required Professional:
Acupuncture Practitioner or Physician privileged to practise Acupuncture.
2. Chiropractic Centre
Chiropractic Centre provides consultation and treatment of disorders of the neuro musculoskeletal system with an emphasis on manual techniques, including joint adjustment
and /or manipulation, with a particular focus on subluxation.

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Required Professional:
Chiropractic Practitioner or Physician privileged to practice Chiropractic.
3. Homeopathy Centre
Homeopathy Centre provides treatment by consultation and prescription for homeopathic
remedies. The Centre also provides nutritional, dietary and preventive medicine advice and
education regarding physical, emotional and spiritual balance as it relates to Homeopathy.
Required Professional:
Homeopathy Practitioner or Physician privileged to practice Homeopathy.
4. Osteopathy Centre
Osteopathy Centre provides consultation and treatment based on principles of Osteopathic
Medicine which involves an approach to healthcare that emphasizes the role of the
musculoskeletal system in health and disease. The provided services include but not limited
Cranial Osteopathy; electro-therapy; therapeutic exercises, osteopathic techniques including
direct techniques such as high velocity low amplitude thrust, articulatory, general osteopathic
technique, and muscle energy; indirect techniques including functional techniques, counter
strain and balancing techniques.
Required Professional:
Osteopathy Practitioner or Physician privileged to practise Osteopathy.
5. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Centre
Traditional Chinese Medicine Centre provides services for health enhancement and treatment
through consultation, prescriptions and modalities such as acupuncture, stimulation of
points, areas of the body or substances in the body using qi, needles with or without electrical
stimulation (using clean needle technique), moxibustion, heat and cold, color, light, lasers, or
suction (cupping wet or dry) and musculoskeletal manipulation consistent with
Traditional Chinese Medicine training (Tui Na).
Required Professional:
Chinese Medicine Practitioner or Physician privileged to practise Chinese Medicine.
6. Ayurveda Centre
Ayurveda Centre provides services aimed at prevention and treatment of diseases through
consultation, prescriptions, lifestyle interventions, detoxification therapies, breathing exercises
and meditation. The centre may also provide services related Musculoskeletal manipulation
and /or therapeutic massage consistent with the training and education.
Required Professional:
Ayurveda Practitioner or Physician privileged to practise Ayurveda.

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7. Naturopathy Centre
Naturopathy Centre provides consultation and treatment for the prevention and treatment of
human health conditions and disease; the promotion or restoration of health; and the support
and stimulation of a patients inherent self-healing processes through patient education and
the use of naturopathic therapies and therapeutic substances.
Required Professional:
Naturopathy Practitioner or Physician privileged to practise Naturopathy.
8. Unani Centre
Unani Centre provides a range of services including but not limited to diet therapy, nutritional
therapy, life style modification, stress management, cupping, diaphoresis, massage, purging,
emesis and exercise. The Centre may also provide education regarding physical, emotional
and spiritual balance, as it relates to Unani medicine.
Required Professional:
Unani Practitioner or Physician privileged to practise Unani.
9. Hijama Centre
Hijama Centre provides services related to cupping based on principles of Traditional
Arab/Islamic Medicine, where blood is drawn by vacuum from a small skin incision for
therapeutic purposes. It may involve the application of suction cups to the skin to draw out
stagnant, congested blood, as well as other stagnant or morbid tumors. Usually, the cups are
made of glass, but they can also be made of bamboo, bone, horn or metal.
Required Professional:
Hijama Practitioner or Hijama Therapist.

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Appendix 4 - HAAD TCAM Facility licensure requirements/audit check list

Standard (Desired Outcome)

Criteria
1.1

Criteria requirements
Licence is displayed

1.2

Scope of service offered within facility are displayed, within

the licensing scope & practised.

1.3

Professional Staff have a valid professional licence to

practise.

1.4

Scope of service defined for professional staff are within

the professional licensing scope.

Management & Human Resources

1.5

1.6

Complaint Management

List of all current staff detailing their title, position,

qualification & signature.
Staff are appropriately attired and wear ID badges

2.1

Patients Rights & Responsibilities are displayed in different

locations in the facility

2.2

A designated staff is responsible for managing complaints

2.3

Complaint process is implemented

2.1

Facility's physical working space is suitable to comfortably

accommodate equipment, staff and patients.

2.2

Facility is well maintained i.e. AC, illumination, ventilation,

good storage practice, hygiene and housekeeping.

3.1

Exit signs are clearly marked lighted & exit routes are
unobstructed.

3.2

Fire fighting resources including fire extinguishers (red &

black), smoke detectors and fire safety posters e.g. RACE
PASS signs are available and are regularly inspected

4.1

Relevant equipment available to fulfil scope of services &

connected with 3 pin plugs.

4.2

Equipment are calibrated according to manufacturer's

standards, well maintained, regularly, serviced by a
qualified biomedical technician & signed service reports
are available.

Facility Maintenance

Fire & Safety

Medical Equipment Management

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Infection Control

4.3

Refrigerators are temperature monitored

4.6

Out of service equipment clearly marked and stored

6.1

Supplies are available for cleaning of surfaces and patient

contact points on equipment.

6.2

Single use/disposable supplies are used wherever possible.

6.3

Good hand hygiene & cleaning practices are followed.

7.1

Expiry of supplies, material & medications are tracked

regularly by a designated responsible staff.

7.2

Medications/material available comply with facility's

license & scope of services offered.

7.3

Facility contains an emergency medication kit(s) evenly

distributed across the facility & containing the minimum
requirements to manage an emergency situation.

8.1

List of services/procedures professional staff is allowed to

do is displayed

8.2

Professional staff practise according to international clinical

practice guidelines.

8.2a

Professional staff demonstrate knowledge of specific

related conditions

8.2b

Professional staff recognise their limitation in clinical

competencies and refrain from practising beyond their
clinical competencies.

8.3

Client records are kept in a secure location for privacy &

confidentiality.

8.4

Client records are allocated a unique identification

number, completed in legible handwriting, signed &
stamped by professional staff.

8.5

Patients care is documented, dated, timed & signed.

8.5a

General consents are signed for all patients on the first visit.

8.5b

Patient signs consent before every procedure to be

conducted. Procedure is to be explained to the patients &
possible risks to be documented within the consent.

8.6

Daily register is kept of all patients consulted.

Supplies/Medications

Clinical Practice

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8.7

Desired outcome of patients' condition is achieved &

registered

8.8

Staff demonstrate knowledge and evidence of

implementation of a defined referral process for patients to
other facilities.

8.9

Professional staff are certified in ACLS & demonstrate

competent knowledge on managing emergency conditions

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