Doszhan Zhussupov, CEO at CerebraAI, was crowned winner of the Innov8 Start-up Competition held at Global Health Exhibition 2023 after an intense session in the presence of the region’s leading healthcare figureheads. Themed “Driving innovation in healthcare”, the competition is an iconic event held every year in Riyadh to give aspiring entrepreneurs the opportunity to showcase revolutionary concepts aimed at elevating the healthcare industry in the region.

CerebraAI focuses on the enhancement of non-contrast CT with artificial intelligence to detect acute ischemic stroke to help patients in emergency situations. As of now, non-contrast CT is used to detect haemorrhagic stroke.

Related: The current status and future potential of AI in medical imaging

Zhussupov was among the six contestants who presented topics ranging from virtual care delivery, automation, and healthcare cost optimisation to clinical intelligence and enablement, disease management, and drug discovery.

The judging panel consisted of experts in various sectors of the healthcare industry, such as Dr. Mohammed AlHamali, Chairman of the National Innovation and Regulatory Sandbox Committee, Chief Innovation Officer and Regulatory Sandbox, SEHA Virtual Hospital and Enablement Centre — Saudi Ministry of Health.

Related: Equip clinical experts with tech tools to drive Alzheimer’s solutions

Commenting on his experience at Innov8, Zhussupov added: “Being announced as the winner was very unexpected because all the start-ups had amazing presentations to show the panel."

In addition to winning a prize pool of US$10,000 to fuel CerebraAI, Zhussupov will receive a complimentary stand at the Global Health Exhibition 2024, as well as an exciting three-month mentorship programme at the Saudi Ministry of Health’s Regulatory Sandbox at SEHA Virtual Hospital and Innovation Enablement Centre.

Read our latest report on Saudi Arabia: Entering New Markets: Navigating Saudi Arabia's Medical Technology Frontier

Back to Technology

At the Global Health Exhibition 2023 various talks took place to spark dialogue on the future of preventative health. Dr. Khalid Abdulkareem, Assistant Deputy Minister for Primary Healthcare at the Ministry of Health in KSA, took the stage to specifically address the role of team-based care in public health programmes, and how it lends to the future of preventative health. In his talk, he emphasised the ongoing journey towards reshaping healthcare delivery and achieving significant improvements in primary care services.

Two years ago, the Ministry of Health embarked on a transformation journey to enhance primary care services across Saudi Arabia. Presently, their primary care network comprises over 2,000 primary care centres distributed throughout various regions. Dr. Abdulkareem outlined the complex operation of securing access, ensuring quality, and enhancing customer satisfaction across this extensive network.

The transformation journey is characterised by the establishment of accountable primary care teams, typically comprising a doctor, nurse, health coach, and case manager. These teams are responsible for a defined number of patients and are tasked with conducting preventive and therapeutic interventions. The goal is to transform the healthcare system from a reactive to a proactive model, emphasising patient engagement and outcomes.

Related: The future of health and medicine: where can technology take us?

The Ministry of Health has laid the foundation for this transformation by addressing legislation and mandates, creating digital platforms, focusing on population engagement, and delivering comprehensive training programs. Legislation and mandates have been pivotal in making team-based care a core standard for primary care centres.

Digital platforms, including the Unified Health Information Exchange system, have been deployed to connect over 2,000 centres. This platform facilitates appointment bookings, team management, and clinical pathway implementation. Additionally, the Ministry has invested in SEHA, a national platform that enables patient registration, appointment booking, and secure communication with healthcare teams.

The transformation journey involves robust monitoring and intervention, utilising dashboards and digital tools to ensure the success of team-based care. Teams are encouraged to communicate with patients proactively, reaching out to those who may not have visited the primary care centres and conducting preventive and therapeutic interventions.

In this effort, clinical pathways have been developed for conditions like breast cancer, colon cancer, and antenatal care. These pathways serve as guidelines for healthcare professionals and help track patient progress and adherence.

Related: Establish collaborative partnerships in Saudi’s transformative journey

Patients have the opportunity to communicate with their healthcare teams and book appointments through an intuitive digital platform. This system enhances patient engagement and eases the burden of healthcare professionals while offering patients a convenient channel to communicate with their providers.

Dr. Abdulkareem concluded his talk by highlighting the achievements of the transformation journey to date. The establishment of primary care teams, robust digital platforms, and continuous monitoring have set the stage for an integrated and proactive healthcare system. The Assistant Deputy Minister and his team are leveraging AI and other technological advancements in healthcare to further enhance patient care. His presentation shed light on the progress and promising future of public health programs and primary care delivery in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Looking ahead, the aim is to move forward in the journey towards a more patient-centric healthcare system in Saudi Arabia.

 

Register NOW to engage in thought-provoking sessions and be a step ahead of industry trends. 

Don’t forget to pick up your copy of Omnia Health from the entrances of Halls 1 and 4. As the official Editorial partner of Global Health Exhibition, the latest edition features insights from affluential leaders alongside key catalysts driving healthcare markets in the region. In case you missed it, you can access the digital version HERE.

Back to Management

Breast cancer is a global health concern, impacting millions of women with one in eight being diagnosed in their lifetime. Every year breast cancer awareness month is dedicated to sharing knowledge and dispelling common misconceptions surrounding the disease. This year’s theme, ‘Keeping Her in the Picture’, emphasises the importance of looking out for the well-being of all females in society.

To address key challenges related to breast cancer awareness and early detection, Dr. Mahmoud Abu Dakka, Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon at Clemenceau Medical Center Hospital Dubai, highlights the significance of early detection.

“Although breast cancer is common in women, it is the most curable cancer, easily detected by a simple mammogram and easily treated when caught early,” he said. He also points out that fear of diagnosis is a major obstacle and suggests that outreach programmes and involving men in awareness activities are vital to overcoming these hurdles.

Related: Advances in aggressive breast cancer treatments

Healthcare enablers and providers have a responsibility to address myths, encourage early detection, and promote support and aftercare initiatives. For instance, injuries or the choice of bras do not cause breast cancer, and there's no scientific link between carrying a phone and breast cancer. Dr. Abu Dakka says awareness programmes should start early in schools and universities.

“Fear of the unknown can impact the start of the treatment of these patients. Having a team approach to every patient would support them during the treatment journey with a holistic approach to cover the physical, social, sexual, and psychological aspects.” 

Mammograms are crucial for early detection, and with advances in research, there is hope for the countless women diagnosed every year. While age and gender play significant roles in the risk factors, most individuals diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease and the majority of breast cancer cases are not hereditary.

Environmental and lifestyle factors do contribute significantly, and it is important to encourage regular check-ups regardless of family history. Technology plays a key role, for instance, self-examination kits, driven by artificial intelligence, now offer a user-friendly and efficient method for women to perform self-examinations in the comfort of their homes. These innovations, coupled with telemedicine, have made healthcare more accessible, removing barriers such as fear and time constraints.

"Breast cancer treatment has vastly evolved in the last two decades. On the oncological front, there have been new and advanced chemotherapy and immunotherapy agents that improved the overall outcomes. On the surgical front, there have been some new and advanced tools and techniques that provide patients with state-of-the-art individually tailored surgical solutions to ensure optimum outcomes,” Dr Abu Dakka said.

Related: Tech advancements improve breast cancer prognosis and diagnosis

With regard to research developments, he notes that doctors are continuously seeing new and adjusted oncological agents to improve outcomes in breast cancer treatment. “I believe the targeted immunotherapy field is scoring high in this area. I suspect we will be using more and more immunotherapy agents, not only in breast cancer but also across the board.” 

Breast cancer awareness extends beyond diagnosis. It includes programmes and initiatives that provide comprehensive support and aftercare. Organisations, including Al Jalila Foundation in partnership with Brest Friends, are pioneers in raising awareness, providing medical treatment, and investing in breast cancer research. Support groups like Brest Friends offer emotional and moral support, proving instrumental in the healing process for patients.

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Back to Clinical

The canvas of Saudi Arabia's healthcare sector is poised for a sweeping transformation, all thanks to the visionary roadmap known as Saudi Vision 2030. This comprehensive blueprint envisions the nation as a global pioneer across diverse domains. The vision is structured around three pillars: fostering a vibrant society, cultivating a thriving economy, and nurturing an ambitious nation. These pillars interlace seamlessly to achieve the vision's overarching objectives and maximise the ensuing benefits. 

Healthcare as a part of Saudi 2030 

Putting Saudi Vision 2030 into tangible motion requires a cornerstone of dedicated efforts. The Vision Realization Office (VRO) takes on the pivotal role of steering and implementing specific programmes coined as Vision Realization Programs (VRPs). A standout amongst these is the Health Sector Transformation Plan (HSTP), nestled within the heart of the healthcare realm. This transformational endeavor aims to overhaul Saudi Arabia's healthcare sector fundamentally. 

At its core, the Health Sector Transformation Program (HSTP) endeavours to forge a holistic and patient-centric healthcare ecosystem. A compelling shift toward value-based care underpins this effort, supported by key objectives such as transparency, financial sustainability, and the promotion of public health through innovative disease prevention and modern healthcare practices. 

Related: Navigating Saudi Arabia's healthcare investment landscape: Insights from Global Health Exhibition 2023

The programme embarks on a journey to ensure citizens' easy access to free healthcare and insurance, imbued with equitable geographical coverage. The expansion of e-health initiatives and enhanced healthcare quality are also pivotal facets. 

The Health Sector Transformation Program is orchestrated under the stewardship of the VRO, in collaboration with KSA’s National Transformation Program. Building on this synergy, a new phase, initiated by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2022, sets sights on creating an operational blueprint for the programme. The goal is to elevate health and beneficiary services, steering them toward a prosperous and sustainable future. A meticulously outlined delivery plan will set in motion a series of nationwide initiatives, clarifying roles and responsibilities to usher in healthcare excellence throughout the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. 

Embracing transformational partnerships 

Domestic and foreign healthcare organisations find themselves at the intersection of opportunity and progress in Saudi Arabia's healthcare market. The evolving landscape offers an array of enticing prospects for collaboration and partnership, all while aligning with both national and Vision 2030 objectives.  

A unique cluster system 

The implementation of healthcare reforms in the context of Vision 2030 will take place in three distinct phases, each progressively building upon the previous one: 

• The initial phase lays the groundwork for a structured insurance framework, paving the way for the subsequent phases of healthcare transformation. 
• Phase two transforms key public entities into corporatised clusters, creating room for private sector partnerships. 
• The final phase focuses on expanding healthcare coverage and encouraging private health insurance providers to adopt value-based principles, opening doors for collaborations. 
• This Cluster Model guides Saudi Arabia's healthcare reforms, progressively enhancing capabilities and value, making it an attractive destination for healthcare partnerships and investments. 

Understanding the Public-Private Partnerships model 

In the transformative healthcare journey of Saudi Arabia, the emphasis on Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) is crystal clear. This collaborative model is a cornerstone across all phases of the reform plan, signifying the government's eagerness to join hands with foreign entities, ushering in expertise, technology, and investments to elevate healthcare services.  

How PPP works: The essence of PPP lies in the establishment of healthcare clusters, where Property Companies (Prop Co's) own infrastructure and Operating Companies (Op Co's) manage daily operations. Op Co's compensate Prop Co's for facility use, ensuring a steady revenue stream. Contracts to operate healthcare clusters are awarded, promising financial stability for foreign entities. 

In essence, PPP is a collaborative approach that merges public sector resources and capabilities with the agility and innovation of the private sector. It allows governments to leverage private sector expertise, investment, and efficiency, ultimately enhancing the quality and accessibility of public services, such as healthcare. 

Related: GHE 2023: Saudi dignitaries attend Riyadh’s biggest healthcare show

Competitive bidding method: One key mechanism within PPP is the competitive bidding process. Here, private entities, including foreign organisations, participate in a competitive selection process to secure contracts for managing healthcare clusters.  

Competitive bidding not only maximises efficiency but also guarantees quality healthcare services. It compels organisations to manage costs effectively and encourages the introduction of innovative technologies, fostering advancements in healthcare delivery. 

Overcoming challenges, seizing opportunities 

While the Saudi healthcare market promises remarkable growth potential, it also presents challenges for private investors. Regulatory intricacies, data availability, and sectoral unpredictability are some of the hurdles that require adept navigation. Partnering with local healthcare partners can mitigate these challenges. 

Maximising opportunities through local partnerships 

In the Saudi healthcare landscape, local partnerships are a strategic asset. These collaborations offer invaluable insights into navigating complex regulations, essential for ensuring compliance and freeing resources for innovation. With an established presence, local partners facilitate access to the public sector sales arena, a critical avenue in Saudi Arabia's healthcare market. Prequalification and quick response capabilities are expedited with local networks, streamlining entry into this dynamic market. For foreign organisations, local partnerships are more than just a choice; they are a gateway to success. 

A promising horizon 

The Saudi healthcare landscape is a realm teeming with opportunities, and foreign healthcare organisations are positioned to play a significant role in this evolution. A burgeoning population, government support, untapped healthcare niches, a robust economy, and a strategic location converge to make this a golden investment terrain.  

As the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative takes centrestage, the HSTP offers a structured and phased approach to capitalise on this transformation. By aligning with a local partner to aid in navigating challenges and leveraging opportunities, foreign healthcare organisations can become pivotal contributors to shaping a healthier, more prosperous future for Saudi Arabia while ushering in transformative outcomes for their organisations. 

Vivek Shukla is a senior advisor for healthcare growth in GCC. Article written with inputs from data analyst, Nada Tarek. 

 

Register NOW to engage in thought-provoking sessions and be a step ahead of industry trends. 

Don’t forget to pick up your copy of Omnia Health from the entrances of Halls 1 and 4. As the official Editorial partner of Global Health Exhibition, the latest edition features insights from affluential leaders alongside key catalysts driving healthcare markets in the region. In case you missed it, you can access the digital version HERE.

Back to Management

 

The world of health and medicine is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and technology is the driving force behind this transformation. At Global Health Exhibition 2023, Futurist and Physician-Scientist Daniel Kraft shared his insights on the future of healthcare, emphasising the pivotal role technology plays in reshaping the landscape of medicine.

Kraft, the founder of NextMed Health and Digital Health, Chair of the Pandemic and Health Alliance, and the mind behind Exponential Medicine, provided a presentation during his session on how technology is revolutionising healthcare. He began by highlighting the transition from the current healthcare model, which he described as "sick care", to a future where health and medicine are continuous, personalised, proactive, and accessible from anywhere at any time.

In this new era of healthcare, technology is the driving force behind these transformative changes. The proliferation of digital tools and connectivity allows us to shift from episodic, reactive care to continuous, proactive health management. This transformation, according to Kraft, will not be limited to a particular region but will be a global phenomenon, making healthcare more democratic and available to all.

Related: The current status and future potential of AI in medical imaging

One of the key takeaways from Kraft's presentation was the idea that fast-moving technologies can empower individuals to take charge of their health. Just as technology has enriched our lives in various ways, it can also upskill people to become better clinicians and patients. Kraft pointed out that certain technologies, like GPT-4, are advancing at an astonishing pace, often outpacing our ability to adapt to their capabilities in terms of regulation, reimbursement, and ethical considerations. However, he sees this as a unique opportunity to harness these technologies and guide them towards a brighter healthcare future.

Kraft shared examples of how artificial intelligence, specifically generative AI, is already transforming healthcare. Patients and parents are using AI to find diagnoses when traditional medical routes have failed them. Healthcare institutions are exploring ways to integrate AI into clinical workflows, anticipating significant advancements in AI's diagnostic capabilities in the near future.

In the world of healthcare today, generative AI is helping to streamline communication, reduce friction, and improve patient care. It's the dawn of an age characterised not just by generative AI but by generative health. Imagine having a personal health companion, a "personal co-bot," tailored to your unique needs, assisting with prevention, diagnostics, and therapy. This concept ushers in an era of precision digital health, where new tools and technologies will work together seamlessly to enhance our overall well-being.

Related: GHE 2023: Saudi dignitaries attend Riyadh’s biggest healthcare show

As Kraft emphasised, health is wealth, and technology has the potential to redefine healthcare as we know it. Over the past decade, we have witnessed an explosion in health apps. In 2011, there were only a few thousand such apps available. Today, there are hundreds of thousands, providing resources and support for a wide range of health and medical needs.

In conclusion, the future of health and medicine is inextricably tied to technology. As these innovations continue to evolve, they hold the key to a healthier, more connected world.

 

Register NOW to engage in thought-provoking sessions and be a step ahead of industry trends. Doors to the second day of the Global Health Exhibition open at 9am.

Don’t forget to pick up your copy of Omnia Health from the entrances of Halls 1 and 4. As the official Editorial partner of Global Health Exhibition, the latest edition features insights from affluential leaders alongside key catalysts driving healthcare markets in the region. In case you missed it, you can access the digital version HERE.

 

Back to Technology

Saudi Arabia's healthcare transformation is a comprehensive undertaking. The nation's dedication to enhancing healthcare accessibility, quality, and innovation has the potential to elevate the well-being of its citizens and make a significant impact on the global healthcare landscape. The healthcare and life sciences sector accounted for 14.5 per cent of the country's budget expenditure in 2022, making it the third-largest recipient of government funds with US$36.8 billion.

At the core of Saudi Arabia's healthcare transformation is Vision 2030, which prioritises health and wellness as a fundamental component of the nation's economic diversification. This healthcare transformation has led to the Ministry of Health taking on a new role. Previously, the Ministry of Health was the regulator, provider and the payer. However, the role has now been broken down into three main entities. The Ministry of Health will be the sole regulator, and the Health Holding Company will become the provider and take ownership of the over 20 clusters across five regions, which will ultimately become accountable care organisations (ACOs). The payer will become the national insurance system.

At the Global Health Exhibition taking place between October 29 to 31 in Riyadh, Omnia Health spoke to Dr. Samar Nassar, Managing Director, Healthcare, Ministry of Investment, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to get an insight into the investments being made into the healthcare industry, both in terms of infrastructure and in state-of-the-art medical technologies and services.

She said: “We are working towards achieving universal health coverage where healthcare becomes equitable across different regions and the entire population of Saudi Arabia. That is the ultimate goal, which won’t happen overnight, so it is essential to navigate the system efficiently.” Excerpts:

Could you shed light on Saudi Arabia's healthcare industry's current trends and growth potential?

The way we identify growth in the market is through analysing value chain gaps. We look at this from the lens of healthcare provision or services, from primary to tertiary care also out of hospital care. Currently, some of the high-priority areas in the industry include mental health-specific rehabilitation centres, as there is a gap in the availability of specialised and standalone centres.

In terms of medical devices and technologies, we look at the value chain all the way from R&D to commercialisation. The segment where we see growth is in manufacturing. We are working with large Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and contracting manufacturers (CMOs) to localise and specifically manufacture medical devices. Within that, there are several layers of opportunities.

For example, we had a recent success story with the joint venture between the American firm Medtronic and Pioneers Systems, a local Saudi company. The companies collaborated to assemble the first production line of basic portable ventilators in Saudi Arabia and then moved to the advanced Intensive Care ventilator. We want to replicate this story with other OEMs, whether jointly with a local facility or company looking to expand or start from scratch.

Within the digital health space, we are primarily looking at emerging technologies. Last year, we worked with Digital Diagnostics to deploy their autonomous AI platform that detects diabetic retinopathy, susceptibility or probability of blindness in people with diabetes. There is a very high prevalence of diabetes in the Kingdom, with reportedly one in five suffering from it. We increase the chances of early detection and prevention by embedding these technologies in regular chronic disease check-ups at primary care centres. Also, these technologies are user-friendly and require simple training, which a technician or nurse could assist with.

Another example is the work we did with a company called Bexa. Their solution is a pressure sensor that predicts masses within the breast and offers accurate and pain-free breast exams without radiation. We successfully helped them pilot at the women's health clinic in Riyadh’s Hayat Mall as a part of the National Breast Screening programme run by the Ministry of Health. The programme screened more than 300 women in over two months. We are looking at ways to deploy them within the private sector, help them with their clinical licencing and reimbursement to enable them as it will help detect breast cancer earlier and bring down the cost burden.

Within the pharmaceutical industry, we are looking at localising drug manufacturing. If we combine pharma and MedTech, manufacturing is the most significant overarching theme. We are looking at building an ecosystem, lowering business costs and building the capabilities within the healthcare value chain.

Dr. Samar Nassar

What potential barriers do companies face while trying to enter the Saudi Arabian healthcare market?

Currently, the healthcare sector in Saudi Arabia is undergoing a massive transformation, and we are in the middle of the shift. Everything we see right now will not be there in a couple of years. And because we're in a transition phase, it can be hard to navigate the system. This is where the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia (MISA) steps in, and our role becomes critical in holding the hands of investors in cross-matching OEMs with local facilities for instance.

Another barrier is small businesses or start-ups around emerging technology, where the type of licences that exist right now in the system are not applicable to them. So, we need to start thinking about how we can bridge the gap using innovation, deploy these emerging technologies and create the required regulatory reforms, licencing and policies which keep data privacy, the governance of data, and the security around patient data and privacy, at the heart of it. All these developments are in progress, but we need to work around them in the meantime.

One of the biggest gaps in healthcare is around the availability of the workforce. MISA plays an important role here as we provide financial, non-financial, or sector-specific incentives. However, we require feasibility for us to be able to qualify and quantify the business case. All this information is available on Invest Saudi, as we want investors to have visibility and access to these details online.

What are your thoughts on the future of Saudi Arabia’s healthcare landscape?

At MISA, we call ourselves the gateway to the country across 15 sectors. Within healthcare, we provide the support needed in terms of legal set-up with all the general licence requirements, in addition to the licences required from a clinical standpoint by the Ministry of Health. We also support new entrants around market penetration or with go-to-market strategies. If they meet our priorities, we work hand in hand with them to enable them to help them deploy their solutions, provide incentives where needed, and cross-match them with the different stakeholders.

What will you be discussing at the Global Health Exhibition this year?

I will discuss the ‘Role of the Ministry of Investment’ and shed light on development opportunities for investors in radiology and medical imaging in the Kingdom. I am also a judge for the Innov8 Start-up competition and a part of the scientific committee for the conferences. MISA will have a booth side by side with the Ministry of Health and Health Sector Transformation Program. We will sign several MoUs during the exhibition between global and domestic investors with considerable investment.

Register NOW to engage in thought-provoking sessions and be a step ahead of industry trends. Doors to the second day of the Global Health Exhibition open at 9am.

Don’t forget to pick up your copy of Omnia Health from the entrances of Halls 1 and 4. As the official Editorial partner of Global Health Exhibition, the latest edition features insights from affluential leaders alongside key catalysts driving healthcare markets in the region. In case you missed it, you can access the digital version HERE.

Back to Management

The Global Health Exhibition (GHE) kicked off its 2023 edition at the Riyadh Front Exhibition and Convention Centre today, welcoming thousands of healthcare professionals to a three-day interactive platform of game-changing innovation, cutting-edge technology, and inspirational leaders. The opening ceremony featured a welcome address by Dr. Reem F. Bunyan, CEO of the Riyadh-based Center for Value in Health, followed by a keynote address by H.E. Fahad bin Abdurrahman Al-Jalajel, Minister of Health, Saudi Arabia.

In addition to H.E. Al-Jalajel, day one was graced by the presence of other dignitaries, notably Saudi Minister of Investment H.E Khalid A. Al-Falih, Saudi Minister of Industry and Minerals H.E. Bandar Al Khurayef, and the Minister of Communication and Information Technology H.E. Abdullah Al-Swaha. His Excellencies were part of a ministerial panel that highlighted success stories and aspirations of healthcare investments in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia aligned with the Health Sector Transformation Program.

Related: Entering New Markets: Navigating Saudi Arabia's Medical Technology Frontier

The future is bright for the Kingdom as healthcare advancements, sustainability, and the evolving nature of healthcare delivery were among the key highlights at the Leaders in Healthcare Summit. The not-to-be-missed segment is being led by renowned local and international industry figureheads across all three days of the conference featuring valuable insights and statistics for anyone looking to gain an understanding of the healthcare market in Saudi Arabia and its future outlook.

“It is clear that the Saudi health system is a leader when we think about creating economic sustainability and resilience of health systems. This underpins a lot of the effort towards Vision 2030 and the commitments being made in the country,” said Amanda Stucke, Principal of Health Policy and Insights at The Economist Impact.

Stucke presented a report on the global health outlook on the podium of the Leaders in Healthcare Summit. In her session, she highlighted the building blocks of resilient health systems that placed emphasis on maintenance, adaptability, and evolution to help regional stakeholders prepare for a sustainable future.

Related: Read the latest business and health news about Saudi Arabia

Commenting on her first time attending the show, she added: “I am impressed by the calibre of speakers and the volume of attendees today. It has also been incredibly helpful today to hear from key figures in the health system and learn about the advancements taking place in Saudi Arabia.”

From revolutionary concepts to state-of-the-art digital solutions, attendees were drawn to the Start-Up Zone in Hall 4 to discover novel ideas led by visionary entrepreneurs who are ready to transform healthcare as we know it. Global Health Exhibition also continues to serve as a one-stop destination for networking opportunities for leaders in both the healthcare business and medical sphere.

Register NOW to engage in thought-provoking sessions and be a step ahead of industry trends. Doors to the second day of the Global Health Exhibition open at 9am.

Don’t forget to pick up your copy of Omnia Health from the entrances of Hall 1 and 4. As the official Editorial partner of Global Health Exhibition, the latest edition features insights from affluential leaders alongside key catalysts driving healthcare markets in the region. In case you missed it, you can access the digital version HERE.

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Back to Management

Medical imaging is an indispensable tool in modern healthcare, enabling clinicians to visualise internal structures and diagnose a wide range of medical conditions. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into medical imaging has led to transformative advancements, enhancing the accuracy, efficiency, and overall quality of patient care. This article delves into the status of AI in medical imaging, its applications across various modalities, the challenges it faces, and the exciting possibilities it holds for the future. 

Current applications of AI in medical imaging 

 

Diagnosis and detection 

One of the primary applications of AI in medical imaging is aiding in the diagnosis and detection of diseases. Deep learning algorithms, a subset of AI, have demonstrated remarkable capabilities in identifying subtle abnormalities within medical images. For example, AI has shown promising results in the early detection of diseases like cancer, enabling earlier intervention and improved patient outcomes. AI-powered algorithms can analyse large datasets of medical images with unparalleled speed, assisting radiologists in making more accurate diagnoses. 

Image segmentation and analysis 

Medical image segmentation, the process of identifying and delineating specific structures within an image, is essential for treatment planning and monitoring. AI algorithms can automate this process, leading to more precise measurements and assessments. In cardiology, AI-enabled segmentation techniques assist in measuring ventricular volumes and assessing heart function, while in neurology, they aid in the segmentation of brain tumours for treatment planning. 

Personalised treatment 

AI plays a crucial role in advancing personalised medicine. By analysing medical images along with patient data, AI algorithms can predict disease progression, suggest tailored treatment plans, and optimise therapy approaches based on an individual's unique characteristics. This personalised approach leads to more effective treatments and better patient outcomes. 

Related: Predictive healthcare: How AI can save lives by detecting diseases earlier

Image enhancement and reconstruction 

AI techniques can enhance the quality of medical images, improving the visibility of important structures and reducing artifacts caused by various factors such as motion or noise. AI algorithms can also reconstruct high-quality images from lower-quality inputs, which is particularly useful in scenarios where image acquisition might be limited. 

Workflow optimisation 

AI has the potential to streamline medical imaging workflows. Routine tasks, such as image acquisition, annotation, and reporting, can be automated, allowing medical professionals to focus on more complex tasks that require human expertise. This optimisation leads to increased efficiency and reduced workload. 

Challenges and ethical considerations 

While the integration of AI into medical imaging brings about numerous benefits, it also presents several challenges that need to be addressed: 

Data quality and quantity 

AI algorithms require large amounts of high-quality labelled data to train effectively. However, obtaining such datasets can be challenging in the medical field due to privacy concerns, data variability, and the need for expert annotations. 

Interpretability and explainability 

AI models, particularly deep learning models, often function as black boxes, making it challenging to understand the rationale behind their decisions. The lack of interpretability raises concerns among clinicians who need to trust and comprehend the AI-generated results. 

Regulatory and ethical considerations 

The deployment of AI in medical imaging necessitates careful adherence to regulatory standards and ethical guidelines. Rigorous validation and approval processes are essential to ensure patient safety and the reliability of AI-generated diagnoses. 

Related: AI-powered growth in healthcare: early trends and learnings

Human-AI collaboration 

Striking the right balance between AI and human expertise is crucial. Integrating AI into clinical workflows requires a harmonious collaboration between healthcare professionals and AI systems. The role of radiologists and clinicians evolves from being sole interpreters to collaborators who leverage AI insights. 

The promising future of AI in medical imaging 

The future of AI in medical imaging holds remarkable potential for further advancements and innovations: 

Enhanced diagnosis and early intervention 

As AI algorithms continue to evolve, they will become even more proficient at identifying subtle patterns and anomalies within medical images. This will lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses, enabling timely interventions and potentially reducing the burden of advanced-stage diseases. 

Multimodal integration 

The integration of data from multiple imaging modalities, along with clinical and genomic data, will provide a holistic view of a patient's health. AI will play a pivotal role in synthesising and interpreting this multimodal data, allowing clinicians to make comprehensive and informed decisions. 

Real-time decision support 

Advancements in hardware and AI algorithms will enable real-time analysis of medical images during surgical procedures or interventions. Surgeons and interventional radiologists will have immediate access to critical information, enhancing precision and patient safety. 

Continual learning and adaptation 

AI models will likely become more adaptive, continually learning from new data and evolving disease patterns. This adaptability will enhance their diagnostic accuracy over time and improve their ability to handle emerging diseases. 

Global accessibility to expertise 

AI-powered tools can bridge the gap between regions with limited access to expert radiologists and specialised medical facilities. Remote diagnosis and telemedicine will be empowered by AI, providing quality healthcare to underserved populations. 

Drug discovery and treatment development 

AI can aid in drug discovery and development by analysing large datasets of medical images to identify potential targets and assess treatment efficacy. This accelerates the process of bringing new therapies to the market. 

Conclusion 

The integration of AI into medical imaging represents a paradigm shift in healthcare, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, personalised treatment, and overall patient care. While challenges related to data quality, interpretability, and ethics must be navigated, the future holds exciting prospects for AI in medical imaging. The collaborative relationship between AI and healthcare professionals will be pivotal in harnessing AI's potential to its fullest. As AI algorithms continue to evolve and adapt, they will undoubtedly play an integral role in shaping the future of medical imaging and healthcare. 

Sattam S. Lingawi, MD, FRCPC, ABR, is a Professor of Neuroradiology, I-ONE Medical Center at King Abdulaziz University. He will be speaking at the Future of Radiology conference at the Global Health Exhibition on October.

 

 

Much more awaits at the Global Health Exhibition in Riyadh this year. Register now to learn, network, and lead your business and practice into a revolutionary healthcare market. 

 

This article appears in the latest issue of the Omnia Health Magazine, read more here

 

Back to Technology

Radiology plays a pivotal role in health care, enabling doctors to visualise the body's internal structures, detect diseases, and guide surgical procedures. The interpretation of these complex medical images can be time-consuming, often requiring the expertise of highly trained radiologists. Over the past few years, the field of radiology has been undergoing a transformation as advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms can recognise patterns and abnormalities in medical images, thus speeding the process and manpower needed to interpret images. Therefore, the intersection of radiology and generative AI holds significant promise for enhancing healthcare and improving patient outcomes. 

Recent releases of generative AI from US-based technology companies has accelerated and enhanced the radiologist’s workflow, increasing diagnostic accuracy and improving patient outcomes. For the field of radiology, this means a greater opportunity for efficiency in value-based care and patient-centred outcomes. 

In an interview with Omnia Health, Raymond Liu, MD, Vice President for Mass General Brigham’s Global Advisory division and Associate Radiologist at the Division of Interventional Radiology at Massachusetts General Hospital, believes the depth and breadth of technological advances like generative AI have the power to transform not just radiology, but the entirety of global healthcare in the coming decade.  

Related: Beyond the hype: Generative AI and healthcare in the Middle East

Generative AI has already impacted pattern recognition, and with its ability to leverage enormous amounts of data. It has further promise in streamlining the entire care continuum even before the radiologist sees an image on their screens. 

Liu highlighted a recent study conducted by Mass General Brigham’s Marc D. Succi, MD, examining patient vignettes fed into Chat GPT. The study found Chat GPT was about 72 percent accurate in making the final diagnosis. “AI has the ability to support the workload of the radiologist, especially with image processing. But AI also has the opportunity to affect the field right from before the radiologists start working on the image to after they finish with the interpretation,” he highlighted. (Who? Ray or Marc?) 

Liu also points out how, in the future, generative AI will be able to help with recommending the right imaging study for a specific diagnostic dilemma and the best type of image and protocols, resulting in valuable cost- and time-saving for radiologists.   

Another area where innovation is occurring is in the medical device field, both diagnostic and interventional. Some of the scanners in the market today can make data acquisitions faster and more efficiently.  

“There is also a lot of excitement in the field of interventional radiology,” said Liu. “The new devices allow us to perform treatments in the fields of oncology and combine them with other therapies, such as immunotherapy or external radiation. This allows for the breaking down the silos between the fields, providing multidisciplinary care, and creating new opportunities for radiology as the technology advances.” 

However, he stressed that there is a need to balance the rewards with risks. For instance, generative AI won't replace radiologists but could replace radiologists who don't use AI to their advantage. “Radiologists need to have AI technologies at their side to perform at top calibre,” he added. 

Additionally, Liu emphasised that some obstacles to what to watch out for are the risks in the regulatory environment, which needs to keep pace with technological advancements. “Often, the regulatory environment works behind, so we need to have safe guardrails around patient privacy and data integrity to mitigate risks. Also, physicians and the workforce need to be comfortable using AI as a supportive friend, so there needs to be a culture and mindset shift,” he said. 

Sharing expertise in Saudi Arabia 

As one of the leading nations in the Middle East, what happens in Saudi Arabia impacts the entire region. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is one of the most important drivers of the healthcare industry that is accelerating the country’s thriving economy and providing for a vibrant society, both in public health and medical innovation.  

Dr. Liu shared that Mass General Brigham is excited to support healthcare initiatives who share the same patient-centred vision. “What is happening in Saudi Arabia is unique as all the different elements from government leadership to funding sources to the private sector and international collaborations are all coming together and dovetailing to push forward and change how healthcare is being delivered in the country,” he said. 

He added that the MGH Institute’s Health Professions Education Department, part of Mass General Brigham, has launched a master’s degree in partnership with Saudi’s Alfaisal University. “We are excited to work in the Kingdom and share our own learnings as true long-term partners for both public and private healthcare sectors.” 

Related: Lessons from Canada for Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030

As one of the speakers at the Global Health Exhibition taking place in Riyadh, Dr. Liu will discuss ‘Medical imaging in the age of generative AI’ as part of the Future of Radiology conference. He shared: “I will shed light on what the future of innovation looks like for radiology and how generative AI, among other important emerging technologies, will change radiology forever. Almost 20 years ago, the digital revolution moved imaging into the information age, which saw the digitisation of images that used to be on hard films. But today, imaging is gravitating towards the “age of intelligence.” During the discussion, I will review the recent history of technological advances and identify the opportunities and risks for radiology and the entire healthcare system.” 

Dr. Liu will discuss ‘Medical Imaging in the Era of Generative AI (Chat-GPT)’ at 12:35pm on Sunday, October 29, at the Future of Radiology Conference at the Global Health Exhibition.

 

Much more awaits at the Global Health Exhibition in Riyadh this year. Register now to learn, network, and lead your business and practice into a revolutionary healthcare market. 

 

This article appears in the latest issue of the Omnia Health Magazine, read more here

 

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Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 is more than a blueprint for the future; it is a pledge to improve the lives of its citizens. A cornerstone of this transformative vision is the digital health revolution, which aims to harness cutting-edge technologies and artificial intelligence to redefine healthcare. However, challenges abound, particularly in ensuring that our healthcare workforce is well-prepared for this digital shift. Comprehensive training and educational programmes are not just beneficial; they are imperative. In fact, the success of this digital transformation hinges on the readiness of healthcare professionals to adapt and innovate. 

Related: Sustaining safety beyond the provision of care

To contextualise this, let us examine Canada's digital imaging transformation in the early 2000s. Led by Canada Health Infoway, the initiative aimed for a 'one-patient, one-record' system. The goal was clear yet ambitious: enable seamless sharing of medical images across various healthcare institutions. The journey, however, was fraught with challenges. Hospitals were at different stages of technological adoption — some had already gone digital, while others were still using film-based methods. This disparity highlighted the need for a unified approach to technology adoption. 

In collaboration with provincial governments, Canada Health Infoway orchestrated the transition from film to digital. This was not merely a technological shift; it was a paradigm change demanding a comprehensive skills upgrade. Healthcare professionals needed to master new digital standards like DICOM and HL7, as well as PACS Management. The challenges escalated when the transition expanded regionally, introducing new administrative tasks like ensuring data accuracy across multiple institutions. This regional expansion underscored the importance of a coordinated, multi-level approach to healthcare transformation. 

Example 1: Managing 'stale data' — outdated information in the shared system — was a significant issue. This is typically addressed in two ways: 

1. Standards-Based Approach: If both the PACS and VNA support the IHE Profile for Image Object Change Management (IOCM), automatic updates between local and regional systems are possible. 
2. Non-Standards-Based Approach: This requires manual intervention from the local PACS team to correct or update the data in the VNA. 

Example 2: Harmonising patient identities across institutions was another critical issue. In Ontario, Canada, two approaches were employed: 

Probabilistic Patient Matching: Utilising an Enterprise Master Patient Index with a weighted demographic scorecard. 

• Pros: Reduced likelihood of false-positive matches. 
• Cons: Increased risk of false-negative mismatches.

Deterministic Patient Matching: Using government-issued identity cards. 

• Pros: Lower risk of false-negative mismatches. 
• Cons: Higher likelihood of false-positive matches. 

So, what can Saudi Arabia learn from Canada's experience? First, technological innovation is just one piece of the puzzle. The human element — ensuring our healthcare professionals are proficient in both medical and digital skills — is equally crucial. Second, regional data management introduces complexities that require robust administrative and governance frameworks. These frameworks must be agile enough to adapt to rapidly evolving healthcare technologies. 

The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) has outlined four levels of interoperability: 

• Foundational: Basic requirements for secure data communication. 
• Structural: Detailed data format and organisation specifications. 
• Semantic: Standardised definitions and coding vocabularies. 
• Organisational: Governance and policy frameworks. 

Levels 3 (Semantic) and 4 (Organisational) present nuanced challenges in interoperability, requiring strong governance and communication skills. Semantic interoperability, for instance, involves applying localization rules to ensure that procedure codes and descriptions align with local PACS definitions. Some PACS systems require administrative correction for exams with unknown procedure codes before they become clinically usable. Ideally the VNA or a DICOM router can apply appropriate localisation rules specific to each institution’s needs.  

Related: Embark on a revolutionary journey in Saudi Arabia’s healthcare market

Another challenge is managing foreign exams to avoid Patient ID or Accession Number collisions. The DICOM tag, Issuer_of_PatientID (0010,0021) can be used to identify where the imaging was sourced, and Accession Numbers can be suffixed or prefixed to represent the originating institution, keeping in mind DICOM's 16-character limit. 

Organisational interoperability, on the other hand, necessitates a focus on governance and effective communication among stakeholders. As Saudi Arabia stands on the cusp of its digital healthcare transformation, conducting a skills assessment of the existing workforce is vital. This will pinpoint areas where targeted coaching and educational programmes can be most effective, laying the groundwork for a successful transition. 

In conclusion, as we strive to realize Vision 2030, let us remember that digital transformation in healthcare is not solely about technology. It is about fostering an ecosystem where technology and human expertise synergise to deliver unparalleled patient care. The road ahead is both exciting and challenging, and today's preparation will set the stage for tomorrow's success. 

I am thrilled to announce that I will be speaking at the Riyadh Global Health Exhibition on the topic of education in imaging informatics. If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further, please don't hesitate to contact me at jason@nagelsconsulting.com.  

 

Jason Nagels is the Principal of Nagels Consulting, Co-Host of SIIMCast, Chair of HIMSS-SIIM Enterprise Imaging Council, and Chair of Canada Health Infoway Enterprise Community, Ontario, Canada. He will present the topic, “Building PACS and imaging informatics training — experience from Canada” at the Future of Radiology conference at Global Health Exhibition on October 29. 

 

 

Much more awaits at the Global Health Exhibition in Riyadh this year. Register now to learn, network, and lead your business and practice into a revolutionary healthcare market. 

 

This article appears in the latest issue of the Omnia Health Magazine, read more here

 

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