Forum seeks public, private health services integration
Health experts emphasised the need for proactive collaboration between public and private healthcare providers to enhance the quality of healthcare services to patients in the Sultanate of Oman. They were speaking at a forum titled ‘Unifying efforts to improve healthcare’ held at the conference hall of the National Bank of Oman head office in Athaiba.
The forum was organised by the Directorate-general of Health Services, Governorate of Muscat, represented by the Department of Private Health Institutions. The forum shed light on the current state of private health institutions in the Governorate of Muscat, where the number of establishments encompassing hospitals, medical complexes, medical centres, and others crossed more than a thousand.
Dr Noura bint Saif al Hosaniyah, Director of the Private Health Institutions at the Directorategeneral of Health Services in the Governorate of Muscat, stated that the forum’s objective was to establish a shared understanding of government practices and requirements pertaining to the private health sector. She further highlighted the importance of facilitating communication and coordination between private and public healthcare institutions.
Distinguished speakers at the event included Dr Thamara bint Said al Ghafriyah, Directorgeneral of Health Services for the Governorate of Muscat, representatives from the General Directorate of Private Health Institutions, heads of health institutions in relevant government sectors, officials from the Ministry and the Directorate, as well as specialists from government and private health establishments. They delivered insightful lectures on various topics related to the theme of the forum.
Dr Said bin Mohammed al Mughairi, Director of the ‘Lean’ project in the Quality and Patient Safety Department at Khoula Hospital, presented an overview of the quality of private health services, providing updates on the latest advancements in private health institutions based on the health indicators set by the Ministry of Health. Moreover, an overview of the healthcare aspect of Oman Vision 2040, including the most significant pillars, was shared with the attendees.
During the event, be’ah’s specialists showcased the company’s contribution to the proper disposal of medical waste through a visual presentation. The Consumer Protection Authority and Muscat Municipality also discussed their roles in supporting the private health sector.
Furthermore, an Omani investor shared his successful experience in establishing a private medical clinic, addressing the challenges he encountered and the strategies he employed to overcome them.
The forum facilitated interactive discussions between the speakers and attendees, allowing for the exchange of knowledge and expertise on the scientific topics presented. The experts addressed the queries raised by the audience, fostering a productive environment for knowledge sharing. At the conclusion of the forum, the organisers and contributors were honoured for their significant contributions to its success.