We've been told by several doctors in Dubai that they're reluctant to direct bill EK any more because they take 6-9 months to settle their bills. Not only that, but one well-known clinic said they offer EK 20% discount on their general consultation rates but recently EK has refused to pay the discounted rate and instead demanded to pay a rate of 45% of the regular rate! The Doc was surprised to hear we pay for 'insurance' each month - they thought we got everything for free. Several clinics are refusing to take EK staff as patients because they're sick of not being paid on time.