Dr. Mansoor Anwar Habib, an Emirati consultant in Family Medicine and Occupational Health, has launched an initiative called ‘Neighbours Doctor’ to provide free medical advice via WhatsApp. This initiative aims to offer quicker responses to medical inquiries, especially in light of the increased demand for accessible healthcare information following the pandemic. Since its inception in June 2022, Dr. Mansoor has received nearly 200 questions in just one day, underscoring the community’s urgent need for medical guidance.

The initiative has seen overwhelming participation, with Dr. Mansoor noting that while the initial response was tremendous, interest tends to spike during events and promotional activities. He actively engages with community gatherings to remind people about the service, which primarily assists with medical inquiries. Common questions often relate to test results, where individuals seek advice on appropriate medical actions, as well as referrals to relevant specialists for their health issues.

Dr. Mansoor emphasizes that he does not provide treatments or prescribe medications, nor does he handle emergency cases. Instead, his role is to guide individuals toward obtaining the necessary medical care. He advises that for emergencies, individuals should seek immediate assistance from the nearest hospital, as he manages inquiries after his daytime commitments. He personally addresses questions via WhatsApp, favoring this platform for its privacy over other social media channels.

Despite the positive feedback received, Dr. Mansoor faces challenges, including persistent requests for specific medications and inquiries about herbal products. He aims to correct misinformation while directing individuals to appropriate medical professionals. Looking to the future, he envisions expanding the initiative, potentially through a mobile app and additional doctors to support the campaign. He stated, “While technology provides valuable information, it is crucial for individuals to consult specialists for proper guidance.”