The Spotlight Magazine is proud to honour Dr. Laura Elena Tepelus, a visionary leader in the field of Occupational Medicine and an influential healthcare leader. As the first licensed Occupational Medicine Specialist in the UAE and founder of the award-winning Medi Sense Clinic in Dubai, Dr. Tepelus’s journey exemplifies leadership, innovation, and compassion. Her dedication to advancing workplace health has impacted countless lives and organiszations across the region and beyond.
From Romania to the UAE: A Purpose – Driven Journey
Dr. Tepelus’s passion for medicine began in her childhood in Romania, where she dreamt of becoming a doctor. Initially drawn to surgery, she later discovered her true calling in Occupational Medicine – a field that aligned with her vision of holistic, preventive care. Realizing the vital role that healthy employees play in thriving businesses, she embraced this speciality with a commitment to transforming workplaces into healthier environments.
This vision fueled her passion for fostering healthier work environments and preventing illnesses before they occurred.
Family First: A Leap of Faith to Dubai
With family as a guiding force, Dr. Tepelus made the courageous decision to move to Dubai after supporting her husband’s career move and caring for their young son in Romania.
In 2005, she achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Occupational Medicine Specialist licensed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). This marked a turning point in her career, opening doors for her to contribute meaningfully to the UAE’s healthcare landscape.
This ground-breaking achievement not only opened doors for her contributions to workplace health but also laid the foundation for transforming occupational medicine in the region.
A Commitment to Lifelong Learning
Dr. Tepelus’s pursuit of excellence is reflected in her extensive qualifications. She holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical and Occupational Toxicology (2007) and has earned multiple international certifications, including:
Offshore medicals (OGUK/OEUK)
Aviation Medicine (2012)
Norwegian offshore standards (2014)
Seafarers medicals (2018)
Maritime Coastguard Agency registration (2024)
She is also a certified Internal Auditor for ISO 9001 and 45001 standards and a respected member of the Occupational Medicine Society, Emirates Medical Association – UAE, where she served as vice president in 2019.
Pioneering Occupational Medicine in the UAE
Dr. Tepelus began her UAE career at Cedars Jebel Ali International Hospital, where she established the country’s first Occupational Medicine Department and led the development of its Infection Control and Quality Health and Safety Systems from 2005 to 2011. In 2011, she joined Occupational Health International as an Occupational Medicine Specialist and went on to become the Medical Director. She was a core member of the Senior Executive Committee at Gulf Healthcare International, where she contributed to shaping corporate healthcare strategy and delivery. During this period, she collaborated with Jebel Ali Free Zone authorities to develop occupational health guidelines and participated in the Dubai Health Authority’s Special Purpose Group (SPG), working alongside experts to advance regional occupational health policies.
Medi Sense Clinic: A Vision Realized
In 2021, Dr. Tepelus fulfilled a long-held dream by co-founding Medi Sense Clinic, a healthcare facility rooted in preventive healthcare, offering services designed not just to treat illnesses but to help individuals maintain optimal health and thrive. With over two decades of experience, she established along with other two partners a center of excellence offering:
Workplace Safety & Industrial Hygiene
Clinical and Occupational Toxicology
Oil & Gas, Offshore & Seafarers Medicine
Aviation Medicine
Preventive Medicine & Stress Management
Her interest in Functional Medicine and Integrative Medicine underscores her holistic approach to treating root causes of illness and promoting long-term wellbeing.
A Legacy Built on Compassion
Beyond her clinical expertise, Dr. Tepelus is known for her deep empathy and human-centered approach. Her work is grounded in trust, respect, and a strong ethical foundation, making her not just a physician, but a compassionate leader dedicated to improving lives. Under her leadership, Medi Sense Clinic has evolved into a mission-driven healthcare provider, setting new standards in Occupational and Preventive Medicine. Medi Sense Clinic has become more than just a healthcare facility – it is a purpose-driven initiative transforming occupational health and preventive medicine for community betterment.
Recognitions & Contributions
Dr. Tepelus remains actively engaged with the medical community through memberships and contributions to:
Emirates Society of Occupational Medicine / Emirates Medical Association
Gulf Occupational and Environmental Medicine Group (GOEMG)
Infection Control Groups in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Her global certifications and participation in regulatory and professional bodies reflect her ongoing influence in shaping healthcare practices worldwide.
Inspiring Generations: A Journey Worth Celebrating
The CEO Network proudly recognizes Dr. Laura Tepelus as a beacon of excellence, whose pioneering contributions continue to inspire professionals in healthcare and beyond. Her story is a testament to visionary leadership, personal integrity, and an unwavering commitment not only to occupational medicine but to community wellbeing. We are proud to shine a light on her story and honour her legacy as one of today’s most influential leaders shaping the future of healthcare!