MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman on Wednesday hosted a high-level side event on the sidelines of the 79th session of the World Health Assembly in Geneva, with the participation of several countries, international organisations, ministers, decision-makers and health experts.
The event was dedicated to exploring ways to accelerate trusted digital transformation in the health sector, amid an accelerating rise in the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare systems around the world.
In his speech, Dr Hilal bin Ali al Sabti, Minister of Health, emphasised that trusted digital transformation is no longer an option but a governance necessity that cannot be delayed. He based this on the World Health Organization’s 14th General Programme of Work (2025-2028), which recognises that digital health and artificial intelligence are fundamental, transformative pillars for achieving universal health coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals.
He touched upon the pioneering experience of the Sultanate of Oman, stressing that the success of digital transformation requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond a mere technical project, to be built upon wise leadership, realistic planning, sustainable investment and the continuous development of human capabilities.
Concluding his speech, he emphasised that equity must be the foundation upon which this digital ecosystem is built, calling for ensuring the right of all countries to equal access to support, knowledge and partnership, regardless of their level of digital development.
This initiative comes in the context of rapid transformations witnessed by health systems globally, where artificial intelligence tools and data-driven technologies are being widely used in clinical care, disease surveillance, health financing management and health systems planning, alongside the escalation of cyber threats targeting hospitals and public health institutions.
It is noteworthy that this event represents an extension of the pioneering role undertaken by the Sultanate of Oman in promoting international health cooperation, and an embodiment of its commitment to the journey of digital transformation based on governance and responsibility. - ONA
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