Digital transformation is at the forefront of the healthcare sector globally, and that’s no different in the Middle East. Used correctly, it has the ability to enhance patient care, optimise operational efficiency and ensure the seamless integration of new cutting-edge technologies, thereby advancing the overall accessibility of healthcare services. This was the central theme at day 1 of Arab Health, and Amane Mohammed, a member of our specialist healthcare investors team, was on the ground to learn more.  

In this blog post, she shares some insights into the key themes derived from Nordic Consulting’s panel session, Cloud and AI strategies in healthcare: applying knowledge to practice for total transformation. 

The role of cloud and AI in healthcare 

It is no secret that cloud technology is reshaping the healthcare landscape. This topic was the focus of discussions at one of Arab Health’s panel sessions ‘Cloud and AI strategies in healthcare: applying knowledge to practice for total transformation’, delivered by Nordic Consulting. Panellists Gary Fitz, Christian Lindmark, and Naqi Khan discussed the importance of executing an intentional cloud strategy as investments across the sector continue to prioritise this area. Some of the issues they raised included: 

A patient-centric focus 

The panellists highlighted that healthcare professionals and facilities should prioritize patient care over managing outdated data centers. Many hospitals are burdened with legacy systems, diverting attention and resources away from core patient-centric activities. The consensus was to transition these data centers onto environmentally sustainable cloud platforms, whether public or private, thereby allowing healthcare professionals the opportunity to focus on what they need to, their patients. 

Sustainable cloud strategies 

A key takeaway from the talk was the emphasis on enhancing cloud strategies with sustainability in mind. Recognizing the environmental impact of data centers, the healthcare industry is leaning towards cloud solutions that not only optimize operations but also align with broader sustainability goals. By adopting eco-friendly cloud technologies, healthcare organizations can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a greener future.

Addressing technological challenges

The discussion pointed out that data center vendors often lag behind in technology adoption, leading to technological faults. Cloud and AI platforms offer a solution by reducing these faults and the overall costs associated with running data centers. This transition allows healthcare organizations to stay at the forefront of technological advancements, ensuring smoother operations and improved patient care

The synergy between cloud and AI

The panellists emphasized the inseparable relationship between cloud and AI, predicting the continuation of the extensive adoption of these technologies globally. As healthcare continues to evolve, the integration of cloud computing and AI is expected to play a pivotal role in streamlining processes, enhancing diagnostics, and optimizing patient outcomes. The anticipation of new and improved models signifies a commitment to innovation in the healthcare sector.

Efficiency and sustainability 

The overarching goal, as outlined by the panellists, is to embark on projects that not only improve efficiency within healthcare but also contribute to sustainability. By harnessing the power of cloud and AI, healthcare professionals aim to create a balance between technological advancements and environmental responsibility, ensuring that the industry progresses with a conscientious approach.

Conclusion 

Day 1 of Arab Health showcased the profound impact of digital transformation on the Middle East's healthcare landscape. Discussions focused on an obvious shift towards patient centricity, sustainable cloud strategies, and an efficient, technologically advanced future. As the region embraces these cutting-edge solutions, Arab Health 2024 signifies a promising future, where technology and healthcare continue to converge for the benefit of patient outcomes and operational excellence.