The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to invest in healthcare innovation and adopt cutting-edge medical technologies are going full steam ahead. The government's support for research and development in the healthcare sector, encouraging the adoption of AI-driven diagnostics, precision medicine, and advanced medical devices, is becoming more prevalent within both public and private sectors. 

When it comes to the healthcare infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, the role of innovation is an important one, as it can enhance care quality, patient satisfaction, and sustainable health development to match international benchmarks. By integrating advanced technologies into the healthcare sector, the Kingdom has set its sights on being at the forefront of digitalisation. 

Related: Unlocking Saudi Arabia's investment potential

To achieve these ambitious goals, Saudi Arabia is dedicated to making significant investments in the health technology industry. The government's commitment to this project is shown in the budget allocation of nearly SR180 billion (US$50.3 billion) for healthcare and social development in 2023. A large portion of this funding will go towards digital health initiatives that will improve the healthcare system's accessibility, effectiveness, and openness. 

One of these initiatives was developing a standard national electronic health record system, which serves as a thorough database to ensure patient information is available to medical experts across the country, enabling seamless cooperation and quick decision-making. Investment in telemedicine platforms is also prioritised, guaranteeing access to healthcare even in rural locations.  

Leading medical technologies in Saudi 

In an interview, Burhaan Khan, Senior Director, Advisory & Account Lead Ministry of Health, KPMG in Saudi Arabia, told us more about the medical technologies being adopted in the Saudi healthcare sector. 

Khan explained that Saudi Arabia’s bold vision means that it is often an early adopter of advanced medical technologies. This includes artificial intelligence (AI) systems for diagnostics, telemedicine platforms for remote patient care, and precision medicine initiatives for personalised treatment. Furthermore, the country is investing in robotics, automation technologies in surgery and patient care, and digital health records systems for improved data management. 

Saudi government’s support in research and development 

The Vision 2030 plan emphasises the importance of healthcare innovation and has led to significant investment in the sector. Moreover, the government provides funding opportunities for healthcare research and encourages collaborations between Saudi universities and international research institutions. It also supports establishing and growing health-focused start-ups through business-friendly policies and incubator programmes. 

Related: Embracing the future: Saudi Arabia's digital healthcare revolution

“The Kingdom’s support for healthcare research and development is second to none, as witnessed through a variety of recent initiatives,” Khan said.  

The advantage of AI-driven technology 

AI-driven diagnostics will be a game-changer for Saudi citizens and residents alike. There are a multitude of benefits, though the most evident and impactful one will be to improve accuracy and efficiency. Khan explained that AI can analyse complex medical data much quicker than humans, leading to faster diagnosis and treatment. It can also recognise patterns and anomalies that may be overlooked by human practitioners, potentially improving diagnostic accuracy. Additionally, AI can facilitate remote diagnostics, improving access to healthcare services in rural or underserved areas. 

He added that precision medicine is a critical facet of the future care model, and incorporating it into the Saudi Arabian healthcare system could greatly enhance treatment efficacy and patient outcomes. Precision medicine involves tailoring treatments based on an individual’s genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. This personalised approach can lead to more effective treatments, fewer side effects, and better patient compliance. It could also lead to advancements in preventive care by the early identification of individuals at high risk of certain diseases, which, therefore, facilitates timely intervention. 

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

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The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) celebrated the 52^nd UAE Union Day, with officials expressing their pride at the country’s remarkable journey of development and prosperity.

His Excellency Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi, Director-General of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), congratulated on his behalf and on behalf of all employees of the DHA, President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (may God protect him) and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai (may God protect him), Their Highnesses Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates, and the people of the UAE.

Al Ketbi said: “The UAE has had a remarkable journey of development and prosperity. We have surpassed all challenges and achieved the impossible in all fields. The UAE has become a global model to be emulated in prosperity and quality of life and has gained its distinctive position among the great nations.

“If we specifically look at the overall achievements of the country in the health sector, we will find that it is one of the fastest growing and progressive sectors in all areas, whether in terms of medical sciences and research, infrastructure and technology, health facilities and smart solutions, which are considered the latest globally, as well as in terms of competencies and human cadres and the overall distinct healing climate, which has strengthened the UAE's presence strongly in the field of healthcare internationally.”

Related: Entering New Markets: The UAE Healthcare Market

The Dubai Health Authority had early celebrations for the 52nd Union Day with a series of cultural and creative activities, events, and artistic and heritage shows, which reflected the happiness among the officials and employees of the Authority and also reflected the feelings of pride and honour on this joyous occasion.

DHA marks Commemoration Day

On the occasion of Commemoration Day, which falls on November 30 every year, the leadership of the authority and all employees, led by His Excellency Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi, Director General of the Dubai Health Authority, observed a minute of silence in front of the UAE flag, paying tribute and respect to the souls of the brave martyrs of the nation.

Related: Dubai Health Authority to launch ‘Elite’ programme

Al Ketbi stated on the occasion that the selfless sacrifices made by the nation's martyrs will remain a source of pride and honour for every Emirati. He said: “The souls of the martyrs will also remain immortal in every corner of the nation and the hearts of all of us. We draw from them the meanings of sacrifice and narrate stories of their sacrifice to our future generations.”

Al Ketbi emphasised that Commemoration Day reinforces the value of loyalty and is an opportunity to reflect on our nation's greatness and glory and renew our commitment to preserving our achievements and all that the martyrs of the country sacrificed their lives for.

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