Oman calls for integrated approach to address global health issues

GENEVA: The Sultanate of Oman participated in the 79th World Health Assembly, which began on Monday at the United Nations headquarters in Geneva and will continue for several days.
The World Health Assembly brings together health ministers and representatives of member states to discuss the most prominent global health issues and challenges.
The Sultanate of Oman’s delegation to the meeting is headed by Dr Hilal bin Ali al Sabti, Minister of Health.
The minister of health delivered a speech in which he said that current health challenges, ranging from communicable and non-communicable diseases to mental health, antimicrobial resistance, health emergencies, and digital transformation, cannot be addressed through isolated or fragmented approaches. Rather, they necessitate an integrated approach based on four essential pillars: strengthening primary healthcare and prevention, investing in data and innovation, enhancing the readiness and resilience of health systems and ensuring their long-term sustainability.
He added that the Sultanate of Oman continues to implement comprehensive health reform and modernization initiatives in line with Oman Vision 2040. These initiatives include developing the digital health infrastructure, enhancing data governance, expanding prevention and early detection programmes, supporting the mental health system, strengthening national immunization, consolidating the One Health approach, and raising the level of preparedness for emergencies and health risks within an integrated system that places people at the center of every decision and investment.

Al Sabti stressed the importance of developing the global health governance system to keep pace with the rapid changes the world is witnessing. This can be achieved by strengthening coordination among international initiatives, supporting national capacities, and facilitating knowledge exchange and technology transfer. This will contribute to a more equitable, efficient, and sustainable health response for all countries, regardless of their level of development.
Meanwhile, Dr Hilal bin Ali al Sabti, Minister of Health, participated as a guest of honour in the ‘High-Level Arab-Swiss Health Dialogue, organized by the Arab-Swiss Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CASCI) in Geneva, on the sidelines of the 79th World Health Assembly.
In his speech, Al Sabti affirmed that the world is currently at a pivotal historical juncture, with healthcare systems undergoing radical restructuring under the pressure of escalating demand, the changing burden of disease, and an unprecedented technological revolution. He stated that the question is no longer whether to cooperate, but rather how to cooperate boldly and swiftly.
The minister of health noted that the Sultanate of Oman’s strategic direction for healthcare in Oman Vision 2040 elevates healthcare from a mere service sector to a true pillar of national development. He explained that the Sultanate of Oman is moving towards building a highly distinguished healthcare system, proactive rather than reactive, resilient to all fluctuations, and suitable for future generations.
The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Health, also participated in the meeting of the Council of Arab Ministers of Health, held at the World Health Organization headquarters in Geneva, on the sidelines of the 79th World Health Assembly. The meeting was attended by ministers of health and heads of delegations from the Arab member states.
The Sultanate of Oman’s delegation to the meeting was headed by Dr Hilal bin Ali al Sabti, Minister of Health. — ONA