GENEVA: The Sultanate of Oman on Monday presented its Digital Haj Health Card experience during the 2024 Haj season at the Digital Health Governance event, one of the most prominent side events accompanying the Seventy-Ninth Session of the World Health Assembly in Geneva.
This pioneering achievement rests upon an integrated ecosystem of digital enablers in the health sector, established by the Sultanate of Oman over many years. Foremost among them is the "Al Shifa" system, which today connects more than 85 per cent of health institutions in the Sultanate of Oman. This is in addition to the advanced national digital infrastructure and the role of the Health Command and Control Centre, which manages health services and monitors them during major seasons and mass gatherings. This embodies genuine readiness to lead digital health models at both the regional and international levels.
Dr Hilal bin Ali al Sabti, Minister of Health, stated in his address that Oman's pioneering experience has been proven through the implementation of the Haj health card, noting that the International Patient Summary initiative is not merely a theoretical concept but a practical solution that changes people's lives.
He added that during the 2024 and 2025 Haj seasons, more than half a million pilgrims were able to carry their verified health records, enabling them to receive rapid and accurate medical care in the most critical moments.
The minister pointed out that Oman Vision 2040 is centred on building a health system supported by modern technologies, focused on the individual and characterised by interconnectedness with the world. The Sultanate of Oman proceeds from this vision in its belief in the importance of making the patient a central pillar of the digital healthcare system, thereby ensuring the accessibility of these services to all.
He explained that the ongoing collaboration with the World Health Organization concerning the Global Network for Digital Health Accreditation practically and realistically embodies these directions and future vision, affirming that the Sultanate of Oman continues its commitment to developing its health system through adopting innovation and advancing digital transformation pathways. - ONA
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