One of the largest and most prominent events dedicated to the healthcare sector, the 12th Oman Health Exhibition and Conference (OHEC), this year, has attracted over 160 home-grown entrepreneurs. 

 

Also present were leading international medical institutions from countries such as India, Iran, Malaysia, Thailand, Poland, Pakistan, the UK and Lebanon. Revered as an ideal platform for spearheading collaboration, the three-day OHEC anticipates hosting more than 6,000 visitors and 800 conference delegate visits.

 

Held at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre in Hall Number 3, the industry event is organised by CONNECT (Oman Exhibitions Organising Company LLC) in partnership with the Ministry of Health (MOH), OHEC is supported by the Directorate General of Quality Assurance Centre (DGQAC), the Directorate of Private Health Establishment, and the Directorate General of Pharmaceutical Affairs and Drug Control (PADC). 

 

Safety efficacy and quality 

Reflecting on its partnership with OHEC, the Directorate General of Pharmaceutical Affairs and Drug Control, in a statement said: “We are excited to welcome all to OHEC - Oman's most significant healthcare and medical gathering. As the overseer of pharmaceutical and medical device regulations, we are committed to ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of all pharmaceutical products and medical devices available in the sultanate. Our collaboration with various stakeholders involves diligent supervision of processes and adherence to regulation.” 

 

Following the inauguration ceremony, dignitaries were given an insightful tour of the exhibition where they observed cutting-edge innovations and groundbreaking discoveries in the field of healthcare. The exhibition serves as a testament to the industry's commitment to sharing knowledge and accelerating technological progress. 

 

The event will see a wide array of offerings from top-tier healthcare companies and medical tourism solution providers. This convergence of industry experts presents a unique opportunity for attendees to stay abreast of the latest trends in the industry, network with peers, and forge meaningful collaborations, all in an environment that facilitates the strategic expansion of market reach.

 

Unified space

Highlighting the significance of the event to the region’s healthcare industry, Saju George, Managing Director of AlFarsi.me commented: “OHEC 2023 is a dynamic platform that fosters collaboration among diverse healthcare stakeholders. It brings together medical professionals, hospitals, suppliers, and customers, creating a unified space for knowledge exchange and growth. Over the years, OHEC has consistently provided us with opportunities to forge new customer relationships and strengthen existing ones.”

 

The Oman Health Conference, co-located with the event, is a vital component of OHEC, poised to stimulate enlightening discussions on a spectrum of pertinent topics. The first day commenced with a keen emphasis on sustainable policy development for improved patient care, innovations in healthcare infrastructure, and the importance of medical education. Panel discussions also delved into insurance nuances while also exploring diverse approaches to healthcare financing. 

 

On day two, coinciding with World Patient Safety Day, attendees will witness the launch of new frameworks of patient engagement in Oman, along with sessions and discussions on the significance of patient and community involvement in healthcare.  

 

Private sector's role

Finally, day three will highlight the private sector's role in healthcare delivery while also discussing strategies to enhance customer satisfaction by embracing innovation. 

 

Another key highlight at the event was the presence of a VIP Malaysian delegation, led by Farizal B Jaafar, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC). In his official address at the event, Jaafar shared pivotal insights into Malaysia's progressive healthcare reforms and the remarkable advancements within their healthcare sector.

 

With a continuous focus on improving the quality of care, the healthcare expenditure in Oman is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 4.7% between 2022 and 2027 to reach $6.1 billion, the fastest in the GCC region. 

 

19 investment projects

In January, Oman’s Ministry of Health launched 19 investment projects, 11 investment opportunities, and 14 empowerment projects to enhance capacity and upgrade the Sultanate’s healthcare sector in line with rising demands. 

 

Furthermore, the Omani government is welcoming foreign investment in its burgeoning healthcare sector which also opens doors for new investment prospects due to ongoing and upcoming multi-million-dollar healthcare projects nationwide. In line with the Health Vision 2050, Oman aims to capitalise on these initiatives and collaborate with foreign firms to inject international facilities and expert resources into Oman.-- TradeArabia News Service