Revolutionizing Healthcare Delivery in Saudi Arabia through Digital Solutions
Date
5/29/2023 3:02:56 AM
(MENAFN) According to a report released by the Saudi government, the elderly population aged 60 or above is projected to constitute 25 percent of the total population of 40 million by 2050 in Saudi Arabia. This demographic shift underscores the urgent need to transform healthcare delivery in the country.
The prevalence of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular conditions and obesity, among the elderly population has triggered a surge in the development of digital solutions to address these healthcare challenges. Sacha Haider, a partner at Global Ventures, a venture capital firm based in the UAE, emphasized that the future of health tech in Saudi Arabia lies in preventative healthcare and longevity.
In an interview with Arab News, Haider highlighted the alarming statistics: 50 percent of the Saudi population is overweight, over 20 percent suffer from obesity, and approximately 7 million Saudis have Type 2 diabetes. To tackle these issues effectively, Haider explained that consultations and check-ins through digital platforms will play a crucial role in activating health tech and digital health solutions in the Kingdom.
Haider envisioned a scenario where chronic patients, such as those with diabetes or thyroid conditions, can have their check-ins done via video conferencing. As healthcare providers emphasize the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of such remote consultations, higher adoption rates of digital health technologies are expected.
The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated the adoption of digital technologies in the healthcare industry, aiming to enhance patient experiences and improve the overall quality of care. Saudi-based platforms like Nala and Cura have emerged as successful digital health service providers, offering a range of services from instant consultations to personalized digital care programs.
The integration of digital solutions in healthcare delivery not only addresses the immediate needs of the population but also aligns with Saudi Arabia's long-term goals of promoting preventative healthcare and ensuring the well-being of its citizens. The ongoing transformation in the digital health sector in Saudi Arabia is set to create a more accessible, efficient, and patient-centric healthcare system that can effectively cater to the needs of the aging population and combat the rising burden of chronic diseases.
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