S P E C I A L I S T I N S I G H T

The region is an emerging medical tourism destination thanks to its advanced healthcare services and costeffective treatments . The Middle East and Africa Health Tourism Market is growing at a very high rate ( a CAGR of + 34 %), expected to hit US $ 49.5 billion by 2030 . Some estimates suggest that Arab medical tourists account for as high as 30 % of the global market .

The biggest regional healthcare hubs like Saudi Arabia now offer more access to high-quality and cost-effective healthcare . Under the Health Sector Transformation Programme of Saudi Vision 2030 , Saudi Arabia focuses on expanding access to specialised medical care , fostering innovation and building world-class healthcare infrastructure . Over US $ 65 billion has been earmarked for Saudi healthcare investments by 2030 .

In this burgeoning segment , KFSHRC makes a substantial contribution . We ’ re tapping into the high potential of this market to become a regional and global leader in medical tourism . In 2023 , KFSHRC ’ s medical tourism patients increased by around 40 %. Our patients were from different countries such as Kuwait , Bahrain , Oman , Qatar and the UAE .

KFSHRC ’ s impressive global recognition as the leading institution in the Middle East and North Africa represents a significant milestone in advancing our status as a medical hub . But beyond the rankings , KFSHRC plays a crucial role in training and educating Saudi Arabia ’ s professionals , contributing to knowledge gain . It is also a powerhouse for medical innovation and research in the region .

As the Middle East attracts more international patients , KFSHRC is excited to be ahead of this transformation , providing progressive care . In the years ahead , we see ourselves playing an even bigger role on the global medical tourism stage . We ’ re ready to welcome more patients from all corners of the world , offering them the best in specialised healthcare right here in Saudi Arabia .

KFSHRC is recognised as a top Academic Medical Centre in the Middle East . What do you think sets KFSHRC apart from other hospitals in the region , particularly when it comes to attracting international patients ?

KFSHRC has succeeded in achieving a blend of cuttingedge technology , global expertise and an unwavering focus on patient care . A world-class research centre directly integrated into patient care ; five specialised Centres of Excellence equipped with novel technologies and a team of world-renowned specialists and professionals .

We ’ re ahead of the curve when it comes to HealthTech . KFSHRC performed the world ’ s first fully robotic heart transplant earlier this month and the world ’ s first fully robotic liver transplant in 2023 . We ’ ve developed AIdriven tools that help us predict diseases , including breast cancer risk and outcomes of bone marrow transplants . This translates into more precise , customised care for every patient , which is what really sets us apart .

What excites you most about KFSHRC ’ s expansion in the medical tourism sector , particularly with its focus on advanced treatments in genomics and neuroscience ? Are there any upcoming innovations or initiatives that you are particularly enthusiastic about ?

KFSHRC ’ s expansion in the medical tourism sector is a vital step in realising our vision to be a globally leading specialised healthcare provider . Our focus is not only on expanding our capabilities and driving innovation but also on making advanced treatments more accessible and affordable .

In the field of genomics , we are leading the integration of cutting-edge technologies into clinical practice . Through Whole Genome Sequencing ( WGS ), we have improved our ability to diagnose and treat rare genetic disorders more accurately . In 2023 , we conducted over 7,000 WGS tests . Notably , the cost of WGS went down by 67 %, which makes this essential and precise diagnostic tool accessible to more patients .

Our Clinical Pharmacogenomics Service is another example . By tailoring drug treatments to each patient ’ s unique genetic profile , we ’ re reducing adverse drug reactions and enhancing treatment effectiveness . In 2023 , we launched a specialised pharmacogenomics service for cardiology patients , ensuring more targeted and safer care .

In neuroscience , KFSHRC is breaking new ground in early diagnosis and innovative treatments . Our autism research has introduced new screening technologies , including a US-patented eye-tracking tool – the first of its kind in the Middle East . Additionally , in 2023 , KFSHRC achieved a regional first by successfully implanting brain electrodes in an epileptic child using a minimally invasive technique .

Meanwhile , our Research Centre continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the medical field , pioneering new treatments , and improving patient outcomes .

www . intelligenthealth . tech 49