Healthcare sector to grow by 8.5%

Sajjad Ahmad, Gulf Today

The UAE healthcare sector is growing rapidly and contributing heavily to national economy. A recent report predicted that the UAE healthcare market will see 8.5% growth by 2023.

Global healthcare market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.9% to nearly $11,908.9 billion by 2022, according to Research and Markets forecast.

The current situation is driving demand for digital health. Technologies as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics are now being used to provide innovations such as tele medicine, automated tests, etc. The market for medical technologies in the region is expected to reach $31.6 billion by 2025.

“The healthcare sector is witnessing an uptick given the introduction of new technologies. The pandemic has further accelerated the sector, with the industry now adapting to structural shifts to cater to the demands of health-conscious and digital savvy population. Although still at a nascent stage, telemedicine, mobile health and medical technology (medtech) are making a surge in the industry,” said Ghada Sawalmah, CEO of Gargash Hospital.

Gargash Hospital has around 50% of the hospital’s workforce made up of women, with 80% holding key leadership roles.

“The healthcare system is changing. Women, who found it difficult to make a mark in this field are now occupying lead roles.  There is a broader push to boost female representation in healthcare management roles and Gargash Hospital is a testament of the same,” said Lubna Naeem, Operations Manager at Gargash Hospital.

While healthcare has seen a shift in hiring, another segment that has witnessed an evolution is marketing.

“The healthcare industry is always changing, and patient education and information are fastly becoming the forefront of focus. As such, healthcare has become equally important. New and creative ways should be outlined to not only increase visibility of the hospital, but also engage with patients and educate them on new and existing solutions,” concluded Fahad Siddiqui, Strategical Officer at Gargash Hospital.