To address the issue of literacy and to curtail the risk of an overdose, a simple pictorial prescription sticker was devised. It clearly indicated all the key elements that were required. From the number of tablets or the amount of syrup, the frequency and time of consumption and the duration of the course, were all illustrated on a sticker which was pasted by the pharmacist on the medication packaging. Common and basic symbols were utilised to ensure comprehension was absolute.

Being the regulatory body in the emirate, Dubai Health Authority had the avenue to implement the initiative across all healthcare service providers especially with pharmacies.

Several key pharmacies which were frequented by blue-collared workers were identified to pilot the project. The feedback, response and effectiveness were monitored over a two-month period to accommodate revision and fine-tuning if they were necessary before the unique system became a mandate throughout Dubai. The successful implementation in Dubai will definitely pave way for a national-level launch.

• 100% comprehension and ease of use by pharmacists

• 97% comprehension by illiterate blue-collared workers

• 0 reported cases of medication overdose in Dubai

• Introduced to 247 registered pharmacies and government hospitals across Dubai