Oman hosted a high-level side event during the 79th session of the World Health Assembly in Geneva focused on accelerating trusted digital transformation in healthcare systems amid the growing global adoption of artificial intelligence in the sector.
The event brought together ministers, policymakers, international organizations, health experts, and participating countries to discuss governance frameworks, digital health strategies, and the responsible integration of AI technologies into healthcare ecosystems.
The discussions highlighted the increasing importance of digital infrastructure, AI governance, cybersecurity resilience, and equitable technology access as healthcare systems worldwide undergo rapid technological transformation.
AI and Digital Health Becoming Strategic Healthcare Priorities
In his remarks, Oman’s Minister of Health Dr Hilal bin Ali al Sabti emphasized that trusted digital transformation is no longer optional but has become a governance necessity for modern healthcare systems.
He referenced the World Health Organization’s 14th General Programme of Work (2025–2028), which identifies digital health and artificial intelligence as transformative pillars for achieving universal health coverage and broader Sustainable Development Goals.
The minister highlighted Oman’s experience in digital health transformation, noting that successful implementation requires more than technology deployment alone.
According to Dr Al Sabti, sustainable digital healthcare transformation depends on integrated governance frameworks, strategic planning, long-term investment, and continuous human capital development.
Healthcare Systems Increasingly Reliant on AI and Data Technologies
Globally, healthcare systems are rapidly expanding the use of AI-powered tools and data-driven technologies across clinical care, disease monitoring, health financing management, and operational planning.
The increasing digitalization of healthcare infrastructure is also intensifying focus on cybersecurity and resilience as hospitals and public health systems face rising cyber threats worldwide.
Governments and health organizations are increasingly prioritizing secure digital ecosystems capable of supporting AI-enabled diagnostics, predictive analytics, telemedicine, and intelligent health management systems.
The event also underscored the importance of ensuring equitable access to digital healthcare transformation resources and partnerships regardless of countries’ levels of digital maturity.
Oman Expands Role in Digital Health and International Cooperation
The initiative reflects Oman’s broader commitment to digital transformation and international cooperation in healthcare modernization.
The Sultanate has continued investing in digital infrastructure, smart governance initiatives, and healthcare modernization as part of wider national transformation objectives.
The event further reinforced growing recognition across the Gulf and wider global healthcare sector that AI, digital platforms, and secure health data ecosystems will play a central role in the future of healthcare delivery and operational resilience.
