National Policy crucial for strengthening healthcare

MUSCAT, APRIL 8

The Ministry of Health will launch the National Health Policy for the Sultanate of Oman today under the auspices of Sayyid Dr Sultan bin Ya’rub al Busaidy, Adviser at the Private Office, in the presence of Dr Hilal bin Ali al Sabti, Minister of Health, and a number of officials.

The step aims to ensure a healthy and integrated life for the population of the Sultanate of Oman by mobilising all health-related energies, efforts and resources.

Dr Hilal bin Ali al Sabti, Minister of Health, confirmed that the issuance of the National Health Policy is a crucial step for strengthening the national health system, noting that the policy serves as a comprehensive strategic framework aimed at enhancing the efficiency of health services and achieving the principle of ‘health for all and by all’ by embracing innovative and sustainable national policies such as the One Health Policy.

The National Health Policy is the outcome of intensive national efforts and close cooperation between various health sectors and relevant stakeholders. It was prepared in accordance to a participatory approach to ensure its alignment with the national priorities and development strategies. It also reflects the Sultanate of Oman’s commitment to enhancing its role in regional and global health and leveraging international expertise and experience to enhance the health system’s ability to provide high and efficient healthcare services, the minister said.

The minister explained that the National Health Policy represents a clear roadmap towards a healthier and more sustainable future and a fundamental reference for decision-makers to ensure the achievement of an integrated and equitable health system that is capable of meeting the needs of the entire population.

The minister noted that health is a top priority of Oman Vision 2040, representing a fundamental pillar of sustainable development and societal well-being. He emphasised that the health sector in the Sultanate of Oman has witnessed a significant advancement over the past decades, contributing to improved health indicators and enhanced quality of life. However, global health developments, including demographic and epidemiological shifts, changing disease patterns and rapid technological developments, all require us to adopt flexible and innovative national policies based on scientific evidence and best practices to ensure the sustainability and efficiency of the health system in the face of future health challenges.

The National Health Policy emphasises that the Sultanate of Oman’s population is the primary focus of comprehensive and integrated healthcare provision. The policy aims to engage the community in the healthcare process to promote collective responsibility for individual and community health. The health system in Oman encompasses all segments of society, with the government and private sectors, civil society organisations, families and individuals collaborating to provide the best comprehensive, safe and equitable healthcare, while ensuring protection from potential health risks.

Among the most prominent foundations adopted by the National Health Policy is public health since it serves as the umbrella through which community efforts to improve health are strengthened. The policy seeks to provide a conducive environment that enables individuals to maintain their health and prevent its deterioration through disease prevention and control. It also addresses all aspects of health and well-being. Primary healthcare is the cornerstone of the health system in the Sultanate of Oman, upon which all other levels of healthcare are based, while at the same time ensuring integration and comprehensiveness, and providing high-quality, safe and equitable health services that are appropriate to the needs of the community. All health programmes and services must be driven by the needs of the population and aligned with the fundamental principles of the state, in addition to being consistent with Sharia regulations and social norms. These programmes must contribute to improving the health and quality of life of individuals based on scientific evidence and best practices.

Leadership and governance are essential elements for empowering the health system and improving its performance. The policy seeks to create an attractive work environment and motivate human resources in various health fields.

The policy also seeks to secure human resources in various health specialties, develop and advance the workforce while improving the work environment and motivating employees. Career progression is also clearly defined to ensure the sustainability of health professionals.

The private sector is an effective partner in health development, given the opportunity to participate in health activities and invest within the framework of a positive public-private partnership thus enhancing the private sector’s role in improving the health system in the Sultanate of Oman.