National family affairs committee meets
It is worth noting that the National Family Affairs Committee is responsible for proposing policies and programmes to support Omani families across social, health and cultural fields, ensuring their implementation in coordination with relevant authorities. — ONA
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Observer
3 hours ago
- Observer
Health insurance claims management firm established in Oman
The first company specializing in health insurance claims management company, was established today. Green Line Health Insurance Claims Management Company is the first Omani company licensed for this activity, supported by a national vision consistent with the directives of Oman Vision 2040, aiming to provide services with global standards using the latest technologies, and to enhance and empower national competencies to undertake a key role in this new field. Faisal Hamad Al Rashdi, Co-founder and CEO of Green Line Insurance Services, stated that, due to his long experience in the health insurance sector, he observed the operational challenges facing this sector, whether at the level of insurance companies, healthcare providers, or even policyholders. Given a clear gap in claims management, Al Rashdi decided to establish this company, especially with the Financial Services Authority (FSA) announcing the opening for applications to practice health insurance claims management as an independent and regulated activity. This presented a national opportunity to establish a specialized local company that contributes to building this vital sector. He explained that the market lacked a specialized company in health insurance claims management, with a greater reliance on foreign companies managing operations from outside Oman. This affected the speed and quality of services, in addition to the possibility of health data, which is highly sensitive, being leaked through external systems. The Financial Services Authority had taken the initiative to issue clear legislation to ensure the protection of this data within Oman. He noted that the company represents a reliable source managed by national competencies, meeting market needs through its proximity to clients, which directly reflects on work quality and the speed of transaction completion. Faisal Al Rashdi said that it is natural for any sector to face some challenges when entering a phase of change, especially when there are long-standing working relationships between the market and external parties that have managed this activity for decades. However, he stressed the necessity of redoubling efforts to build trust and confirm readiness to provide high-standard services that meet the needs and aspirations of target groups, in addition to full compliance with national regulations. As for the project's nature, he mentioned that the company offers a comprehensive package of services in health insurance claims management that meets international standards. These include accurate and prompt medical claims management, medical and administrative verification using smart systems to detect duplication and errors, as a step towards time management. It also covers medical network management, from contracting with hospitals and clinics to ensuring the quality of service provided to policyholders, in addition to data analysis and smart reporting that helps insurance companies make decisions based on accurate data. He emphasized that the company relies heavily on digital solutions and modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, for faster data analysis and the automation of routine operations using robotic process automation (RPA), which reduces manual errors and saves time and effort. Furthermore, it is fully integrated with the national platform developed by the Financial Services Authority ("Dhamani" platform), which has been approved for fully electronic operations. He clarified that the company handles data confidentially, storing client data on company-owned servers only, without relying on external servers, to ensure complete control over information security. It applies best cybersecurity standards, such as advanced data encryption during transmission and storage, firewalls, and intrusion detection and prevention systems. Additionally, access permissions are granted on a limited and well-considered basis according to the employees' job roles, along with adherence to all local and international laws and regulations related to data protection and periodic reviews to ensure continuous compliance.
Observer
19-07-2025
- Observer
Colon cancer can strike younger than you think
Like me, you may have had or might face cancer someday. I consider myself fortunate to be in Oman, where thanks to an excellent team of Omani doctors, I am now cancer-free. The cancer I had was in the lower digestive system, specifically in the colon. It's a topic many shy away from because it's embarrassing to talk about, but for me it was a wake-up call. When I received the diagnosis, I experienced disbelief. I had always joked that I planned to go quickly, possibly with a heart attack. However, the reality set in during a visit to my consultant, because I felt unusually fatigued. He suggested I undergo an endoscopy and colonoscopy, which I initially thought was over the top. In the UK, my NHS GP might have simply prescribed iron tablets, as GPs there often have to operate within strict financial constraints that prioritise budgets over thorough diagnostics — an issue rooted in the broader failings of our health service. In Oman, I was fortunate to see highly qualified specialists. My Omani consultant gave me a knowing smile when I mentioned my concerns about his cancer related questions. The day before my colonoscopy I fasted and took the liquid laxative. Under deep sedation (which I advise always to accept) I then had the colonoscopy. The gastroenterologist, a well-respected and familiar face, entered the room during my recovery. He told me there was nothing wrong up there — my stomach was fine — but that "down there", he found something "sinister". The word "sinister" caught my attention. I thought of its Latin root meaning "left", but since I was no longer teaching Latin I decided not to elucidate. I inquired instead if he was suggesting something malignant. Yes, he confirmed — cancer. I asked if it was serious, but he could only say it was quite well-hidden. It was surreal, as if I'd entered a new world. Everything else, my book writing, writing for the Observer, my UK property business, all became insignificant compared to this news. That week was filled with Google searches about survival rates, treatments and prognoses. The prognosis for colon cancer can be grim, especially if it's aggressive. My biopsy confirmed I had an aggressive form, one that was out to get me. The day of surgery arrived. I wasn't afraid, knowing I was in good hands. My surgeon was renowned in Oman and internationally. He initially planned for a laparoscopy, but because the tumour was large, he had to open me up. I discovered that the true extent of a cancer's stage can only be known post-op after the pathology report. On the day I sat waiting to hear the results, I felt faint with nerves, low iron or both. I was about to learn whether I faced stage 1, 2, 3, or 4 cancer. By then, I had become an expert googler on colon cancer. The moment came. The surgeon, surprisingly, started chatting about life in general. I pressed him on my stage, I needed clarity. He simply waved his hand dismissively and said, 'Oh, Stage Zero.' Stage Zero? I'd never heard of that. Like a rattlesnake curled up, ready to strike, it hadn't moved. Colon cancer is becoming more common, even among younger people. If you're over 45, I strongly recommend getting a colonoscopy. Early detection offers nearly 100 per cent curability. It's a serious health risk, but it's also one that can be effectively managed if caught early. If you're over 45, I strongly recommend getting a colonoscopy. Early detection offers nearly 100 per cent curability. It's a serious health risk, but it's also one that can be effectively managed if caught early.
Observer
16-07-2025
- Observer
Pharmacists must be Omanis
The Ministry of Health (MOH) has issued a circular 167/2025 calling for mandatory Omanization in pharmacies located within commercial complexes and hospital facilities. The directive specifically states that licenses for non-Omani pharmacists and their assistants will no longer be renewed. The decision has been widely welcomed, particularly by Omani pharmacy graduates who have long voiced concerns about the lack of employment opportunities in private pharmacies, which have been largely dominated by expatriate professionals for years. For many pharmacy graduates in the Sultanate, the circular marks a long-awaited turning point. Saeed al Amri, a recent graduate with a pharmacy degree from a local university, expressed his optimism, saying, 'My classmates and I have been waiting for a decision like this since graduation. Unfortunately, the private sector has been heavily reliant on expat pharmacists. Now, we feel a real opportunity is emerging for us.' Abdulla al Hosani, an Omani pharmacist currently working in a private healthcare facility, echoed the sentiment, stating: 'This is not just about replacing expats. It's about investing in local talent. We are well-trained and more than capable of leading the pharmacy sector forward.' Recent statistics from the Ministry of Higher Education reveal a growing number of pharmacy graduates from both local and international institutions. Yet employment rates among these graduates remain modest, particularly within private institutions, where cost considerations often lead to the hiring of lower-paid foreign workers. While the decision has been largely applauded, stakeholders agree that implementing Omanization requires parallel efforts to ensure that Omani pharmacists are fully equipped to take on their roles in the private sector. Kholood Al-Balushi, a trainee pharmacist, believes that readiness is key: 'As graduates, we must rise to the challenge. The job market is competitive, and we need to continuously improve our skills. Securing opportunities should be matched with personal development.' Some private pharmacy owners have also highlighted the importance of additional support measures, such as financial incentives or training programs to ensure a smooth transition. The Ministry of Health emphasized that the circular is part of a broader national vision under Oman Vision 2040 to create sustainable employment opportunities for is a carefully considered policy decision based on employment data and field studies. The ministry is committed to working closely with private healthcare providers to ensure that this transition is implemented effectively without compromising the quality of healthcare services. Experts believe this directive will contribute to a broader shift in private sector employment dynamics. With more Omanis entering the pharmacy field, patient communication and trust may improve due to shared language, cultural understanding, and stronger community bonds. Moreover, the decision may also encourage higher education institutions to enhance their pharmacy programs by aligning them more closely with the needs of the local job market. It is expected that government-led initiatives such as training subsidies, internship placements, and employer incentives will play a key role in supporting the Omanization process. Ultimately, the Omanization of the pharmacy profession signals a decisive step toward workforce sustainability in the healthcare sector. It not only offers a renewed sense of hope for hundreds of job-seeking graduates but also reaffirms the nation's long-term commitment to building a self-reliant healthcare system.
