Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai appoints first CEO

Canning was previously Clinical Service Director and a consultant eye surgeon treating patients from central south England, at a specialist centre operated by Southampton Universities Hospital Trust (SUHT).

Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai is scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2007 in the Al Razi Medical Complex at phase one of Dubai Healthcare City. It will be the first overseas hospital established by Britain's National Health Service.

'We will be treating patients from the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, and beyond, in a world-class hospital. We intend to be a provider of choice for patients with eye disease, at the leading edge of innovation in ophthalmic practice,' said Canning.

A Fellow of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, Canning has published 41 papers. His current research interests include Diabetic retinopathy, the most common diabetic eye disease and a leading cause of blindness in adults. Over 25% of UAE nationals have diabetes.

Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai will be seamlessly integrated with its London headquarters. In addition to its locally based consultant staff, visiting consultants and telemedicine links will ensure patients receive world-class diagnosis and treatment. The hospital will be equipped with the latest ophthalmic technology.

Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai will work closely with the Harvard Medical School Dubai Centre to support post graduate training in Ophthalmology, as well as developing and participating in world class research with the Institute of Ophthalmology in London and other academic partners.

Moorfields Eye Hospital London is one of the world's most famous eye hospitals. It was founded in 1804, and opened in 1805. It is the oldest and one of the largest centres for ophthalmic treatment, teaching and research in the world. Last year the hospital carried out over 23,000 ophthalmic operations.