The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) is scheduled to showcase the digital healthcare ecosystem of the emirate through a series of latest initiatives and technological innovations at GITEX Technology Week 2021.

The GITEX is taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from October 17-21, 2021. During its participation at the GITEX, the Department will exhibit its key achievements with regards to the top-class response of the Abu Dhabi government against the COVID-19 pandemic. In its exhibition, the DoH will highlight the latest technologies and innovations used by relevant authorities to strengthen the efficiency and accessibility of the emirate's healthcare sector to address the global health crisis.

As part of its participation, the Department will also present the dedication shown by the Abu Dhabi government in ensuring preparedness of the healthcare sector for future crises by diversifying its digital competencies and innovations.

Talking about the Department's participation, Dr. Jamal Al Kaabi, Undersecretary of DoH, hailed the UAE leadership for its forward-looking vision in adopting the latest technologies as well as positioning the country as a global hub for innovation and a leader in the smart transformation process in the region.

Dr. Al Kaabi highlighted that the DoH is investing in new technologies such as AI and ecosystem technologies to achieve the mission of the Department of ensuring the provision of world-class medical services to all members of the community.

"Core to our mission is creating a robust innovation ecosystem that provides HealthTech start-ups with the support they need to thrive in addition to facilitating key partnerships with local and international entities," he added.

At the GITEX, the DoH is also aiming to amplify its collaborations with local and global organisations to open doors for enhanced partnerships in the sector. These collaborations will help in establishing Abu Dhabi as a global healthcare hub and medical destination that welcomes patients from around the world. The DoH will also underscore important investment opportunities in the healthcare sector in Abu Dhabi with the aim of fulfulling its commitment to promoting regulatory practices and right policies to encourage innovations and technologies in the sector.

Furthermore, the Department will exhibit a number of key projects and initiatives launched by the emirate's healthcare during the fight against COVID-19, including the Certification of Need project, the Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) Impact Management Simulator, the Health Licensing System, the Drones Delivery System Project, and the Innovation Ecosystem Support project.

Every project has provided various services to improve the healthcare system in the emirate. For instance, the Certification of Need system utilises modern tools to swiftly recognise the supply and demand needs of the sector with the help of forward-looking data sets which are directly linked to the licensing and capacity management system in the Health Planning Sector.

In addition, the ASCVD Disease Impact Management Simulator (DIMS) is designed to use local data in optimising resource allocation and prioritising the deployment of needed initiatives for the healthcare sector. Remodeled in June 2020, the Health Licensing System implemented innovative solutions for users in a timely manner to enhance the simplicity, accuracy and instant delivery of services of the healthcare system.

Planned to launch in 2022, DoH's Drones Delivery System project will use drones linked across 40 stations with the aim of creating a state-of-the-art delivery system and network in the emirate. The project has been developed through the collaboration between DoH, General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), SkyGo and Matternet, to leverage existing advanced infrastructure to strengthen the emirate's healthcare logistics.

At the same time, HealthTech Accelerator Programme is providing necessary support to health tech startups to create a flexible and innovative ecosystem that will facilitate technological development in healthcare services across Abu Dhabi.

The DoH is also planning on introducing four startups as part of its ongoing efforts to assist promising and modern startups. These startups will provide innovative solutions to bridge the gaps in healthcare services and accelerate the achievement of DoH's strategic goals to improve Abu Dhabi’s healthcare system.

One of the biggest tech events worldwide, the GITEX Technology Week 2021 provides a platform for global technology leaders, enterprises and startups to showcase their latest innovations, digital projects and initiatives that are seeking to redefine the future of business operations and relevant industries. 

WAM