Latest news with #OmanDentalCollege
Zawya
09-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: Digital healthcare booming
The global healthcare market is undergoing a massive paradigm shift from the conventional way to digital healthcare, a long-overdue transformation, and the reflections are felt across the region too. In 2024, the market attracted $25.1 billion globally, reflecting a 5.5-per cent year-on-year increase across thousands of deals. From start-ups to industry giants, tech investment is changing the face of healthcare. AI-driven innovations accounted for nearly half of all digital health advancements globally, with US AI start-ups securing 60 percent of all digital health funding in Q1. A recent report from CB Insights reveals that digital health start-ups across the globe raised $5 billion during the first quarter of this year. This huge investment reflects a trend for fewer, higher-quality deals. In the first quarter of 2025, the average digital health funding deal was $6.4 million, according to the report. The MENA region, Europe, APAC and the Americas have all attracted substantial investments in key areas, including oncology, medical diagnostics, and of course, Artificial Intelligence. 'Oman's healthcare sector is steadily aligning with global trends in digital transformation. From the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) to the adoption of telemedicine and AI-driven diagnostics, the country is embracing innovation to enhance patient care and accessibility,' Dr Viresh Chopra from Oman Dental College says. But with change comes challenges. And in the inertia-heavy, regulation-rich healthcare landscape, the report suggests that the only way to maintain momentum is through global collaboration. Going forward embracing the challenges, the government's commitment to Oman Vision 2040 has further accelerated this progress, encouraging public-private partnerships and investments in health tech. While challenges such as infrastructure and digital literacy remain, Oman's forward-thinking approach signals a promising future where technology and healthcare go hand in hand. 'We are witnessing a clear and progressive shift towards digital transformation in the healthcare sector — both nationally and within our organisation. While global investments, like the $25.1 billion reported by CB Insights in 2024, highlight the momentum of this transformation, Oman is steadily aligning itself with this trend by embracing technology to improve efficiency, patient care and overall health outcomes,' says Ajimsha P A, Head of operations, NMC hospital. Oman's hospitals are witnessing how digital tools are reshaping healthcare delivery. Healthcare providers have invested in Electronic Health Records (EHRs), AI-assisted diagnostics, and cloud-based data systems that streamline operations and reduce administrative burdens. Telemedicine, which gained strong traction during the pandemic, continues to be a critical component in enhancing accessibility for patients, especially in remote areas. Self registration app and pay from home facility, wherein the patient will be directly coming to the outpatient clinic without hassle of waiting in queue and getting the care needed, are the new additions that Oman hospitals would see soon. At the national level, initiatives such as Oman Vision 2040 are driving digitisation across sectors, including healthcare. The Ministry of Health has been proactive in launching digital health portals, mobile apps for appointment bookings and e-prescriptions, and even piloting AI-driven patient monitoring systems. From the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) to the adoption of telemedicine and AI-driven diagnostics, Oman is embracing innovation to enhance patient care and accessibility
Observer
08-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
Digital healthcare booming
The global healthcare market is undergoing a massive paradigm shift from the conventional way to digital healthcare, a long-overdue transformation, and the reflections are felt across the region too. In 2024, the market attracted $25.1 billion globally, reflecting a 5.5-per cent year-on-year increase across thousands of deals. From start-ups to industry giants, tech investment is changing the face of healthcare. AI-driven innovations accounted for nearly half of all digital health advancements globally, with US AI start-ups securing 60 percent of all digital health funding in Q1. A recent report from CB Insights reveals that digital health start-ups across the globe raised $5 billion during the first quarter of this year. This huge investment reflects a trend for fewer, higher-quality deals. In the first quarter of 2025, the average digital health funding deal was $6.4 million, according to the report. The MENA region, Europe, APAC and the Americas have all attracted substantial investments in key areas, including oncology, medical diagnostics, and of course, Artificial Intelligence. 'Oman's healthcare sector is steadily aligning with global trends in digital transformation. From the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) to the adoption of telemedicine and AI-driven diagnostics, the country is embracing innovation to enhance patient care and accessibility,' Dr Viresh Chopra from Oman Dental College says. But with change comes challenges. And in the inertia-heavy, regulation-rich healthcare landscape, the report suggests that the only way to maintain momentum is through global collaboration. Going forward embracing the challenges, the government's commitment to Oman Vision 2040 has further accelerated this progress, encouraging public-private partnerships and investments in health tech. While challenges such as infrastructure and digital literacy remain, Oman's forward-thinking approach signals a promising future where technology and healthcare go hand in hand. 'We are witnessing a clear and progressive shift towards digital transformation in the healthcare sector — both nationally and within our organisation. While global investments, like the $25.1 billion reported by CB Insights in 2024, highlight the momentum of this transformation, Oman is steadily aligning itself with this trend by embracing technology to improve efficiency, patient care and overall health outcomes,' says Ajimsha P A, Head of operations, NMC hospital. Oman's hospitals are witnessing how digital tools are reshaping healthcare delivery. Healthcare providers have invested in Electronic Health Records (EHRs), AI-assisted diagnostics, and cloud-based data systems that streamline operations and reduce administrative burdens. Telemedicine, which gained strong traction during the pandemic, continues to be a critical component in enhancing accessibility for patients, especially in remote areas. Self registration app and pay from home facility, wherein the patient will be directly coming to the outpatient clinic without hassle of waiting in queue and getting the care needed, are the new additions that Oman hospitals would see soon. At the national level, initiatives such as Oman Vision 2040 are driving digitisation across sectors, including healthcare. The Ministry of Health has been proactive in launching digital health portals, mobile apps for appointment bookings and e-prescriptions, and even piloting AI-driven patient monitoring systems. BLURB From the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) to the adoption of telemedicine and AI-driven diagnostics, Oman is embracing innovation to enhance patient care and accessibility
Observer
25-05-2025
- Health
- Observer
Omani innovation develops biocompatible dental filling
MUSCAT: An innovative team from the Oman Dental College has successfully developed a dental filling using Omani Portland cement reinforced with carbon nanoplates, creating the first material that combines exceptional strength with complete biocompatibility for dental tissues. This breakthrough opens new horizons in global dental treatments. Malak bint Khalifa al Harthiyah, a member of the research team "Pulp49," said that the innovation stemmed from observing how traditional fillings often lack a balance between "strength" and "biocompatibility." This prompted the team to develop a new composite that achieves this challenging balance. She explained that the composite is a dental filling made by integrating Omani cement with graphene sheets, resulting in a material with high mechanical efficiency and significant biocompatibility. This has led to clear and rapid restoration of surrounding dental tissues. The development of the composite took approximately five years of research and experimentation, undergoing initial cell-level testing followed by animal trials in collaboration with the Mounted Police Command. It is now in the second phase of human trials, with preliminary results showing highly promising indicators. Regarding the expected benefits of this composite in dentistry, she noted that it provides a cost-effective solution while enhancing the longevity and efficiency of dental treatments. This represents a major advancement in dental materials, offering improved outcomes for both patients and dentists. Among its key advantages is high biocompatibility, as the integration of carbon nanoplates enhances the material's positive interaction with biological tissues while reinforcing its mechanical properties. This makes it particularly suitable for complex and challenging dental applications. Malak bint Khalifa al Harthiyah Additionally, the composite supports tissue regeneration by mimicking an ideal environment for the rebuilding cells in surrounding dental tissues. This effect is attributed to the synergistic interaction between the carbon nanoplates' properties and the calcium ion-based reaction of Portland cement with physiological body fluids. The composite also exhibits superior sealing capabilities, with the increased volume and unique properties of the nanoplates enhancing its ability to fill gaps and voids, making it ideal for applications requiring tight seals or water resistance. The innovation has been officially recognised, securing a patent in the Sultanate of Oman and international registration. The team is currently finalising the last stages of development after receiving essential support from the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, paving the way for its introduction to local and eventually global markets. Addressing the challenges faced during the project, she explained that the team encountered difficulties in achieving the ideal composition, requiring multiple rounds of testing, experimentation and model adjustments before finalising the approved formula. She emphasised the substantial support received, with the Oman Dental College providing necessary resources and the ROP Mounted Police contributing to trials. She also acknowledged the direct support of Dr Abu Bakr Qateeshat, Head of Graduate Studies, Research and Development at the college, and Dr Aida al Wahaibi, as well as the encouragement from family, which served as a major motivator in achieving this milestone. Regarding her selection to represent Oman at the International Invention, Innovation and Technology Exhibition (ITEX) in Malaysia in 2025, she described it as an opportunity to showcase Omani youth's capabilities and their role in delivering innovative solutions that elevate Oman's global standing, while also facilitating knowledge exchange with innovators worldwide. Malak bint Khalifa al Harthiyah affirmed that Omani youth are capable of remarkable achievements when they believe in their ideas and channel their creativity toward serving society — especially when innovation is genuine, addresses real needs and contributes to the nation's progress.
Times of Oman
25-05-2025
- Health
- Times of Oman
Omani team develops strong, biocompatible dental filling
Muscat: An innovative team from the Oman Dental College has successfully developed a dental filling using Omani Portland cement reinforced with carbon nanoplates, creating the first material that combines exceptional strength with complete biocompatibility for dental tissues. This breakthrough opens new horizons in global dental treatments. Malak Khalifa Al Harthy, a member of the research team "Pulp49," told Oman News Agency (ONA) that the innovation stemmed from observing how traditional fillings often lack a balance between "strength" and "biocompatibility." This prompted the team to develop a new composite that achieves this challenging balance. She explained that the composite is a dental filling made by integrating Omani cement with graphene sheets, resulting in a material with high mechanical efficiency and significant biocompatibility. This has led to clear and rapid restoration of surrounding dental tissues. The development of the composite took approximately five years of research and experimentation, undergoing initial cell-level testing followed by animal trials in collaboration with the Mounted Police Command. It is now in the second phase of human trials, with preliminary results showing highly promising indicators. Regarding the expected benefits of this composite in dentistry, she noted that it provides a cost-effective solution while enhancing the longevity and efficiency of dental treatments. This represents a major advancement in dental materials, offering improved outcomes for both patients and dentists. Among its key advantages is high biocompatibility, as the integration of carbon nanoplates enhances the material's positive interaction with biological tissues while reinforcing its mechanical properties. This makes it particularly suitable for complex and challenging dental applications. Additionally, the composite supports tissue regeneration by mimicking an ideal environment for the rebuilding cells in surrounding dental tissues. This effect is attributed to the synergistic interaction between the carbon nanoplates' properties and the calcium ion-based reaction of Portland cement with physiological body fluids. The composite also exhibits superior sealing capabilities, with the increased volume and unique properties of the nanoplates enhancing its ability to fill gaps and voids, making it ideal for applications requiring tight seals or water resistance. The innovation has been officially recognized, securing a patent in the Sultanate of Oman and international registration. The team is currently finalizing the last stages of development after receiving essential support from the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation, paving the way for its introduction to local and eventually global markets. Addressing the challenges faced during the project, she explained that the team encountered difficulties in achieving the ideal composition, requiring multiple rounds of testing, experimentation, and model adjustments before finalizing the approved formula. She emphasized the substantial support received, with the Oman Dental College providing necessary resources and the ROP Mounted Police contributing to trials. She also acknowledged the direct support of Dr. Abu Bakr Qateeshat, Head of Graduate Studies, Research, and Development at the college, and Dr. Aida Al-Wahaibi, as well as the encouragement from family, which served as a major motivator in achieving this milestone. Regarding her selection to represent Oman at the International Invention, Innovation, and Technology Exhibition (ITEX) in Malaysia in 2025, she described it as an opportunity to showcase Omani youth's capabilities and their role in delivering innovative solutions that elevate Oman's global standing, while also facilitating knowledge exchange with innovators worldwide. In closing, Malak Khalifa Al-Harthy affirmed that Omani youth are capable of remarkable achievements when they believe in their ideas and channel their creativity toward serving society—especially when innovation is genuine, addresses real needs, and contributes to the nation's progress. -ONA
Observer
08-04-2025
- Climate
- Observer
Protect your health and vehicles from heat
With temperatures hovering around 40 degrees Celsius, experts have urged people especially those working outdoors to take summer precautions. One must drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Consuming alcohol, coffee, tea and caffeinated soft drinks can hurt more than help during summer. "Summer has already hit Oman, and temperatures are nearly 40 degrees on some days. In this case, unless certain precautions are taken to avoid sunstroke and falling prey to heat waves, one wouldn't be able to stay healthy during the extreme temperatures," says Dr Mohammed al Rahbi, a specialist in emergency medicine. If anyone develops symptoms like body aches, dizziness, tiredness, shivering, fever, loose motion, vomiting, consult a doctor immediately as timely intervention can prevent further loss of water and electrolytes from the body and hasten recovery," said Dr Al Rahbi One should also wear loose and light-coloured clothing which is better than wearing dark coloured outfits which will absorb heat. "Caps can protect one from direct sunlight on the face and usage of sunscreens is advisable. Frequent sips of water are the need of the hour as they can keep you dehydrated,' adds another doctor. Those who are working outside during these sweltering months, beware. Although the three-month-long midday break would start in June, you need to protect yourself as summer is here. For blue collared workers, they should take a rest in the shade during peak hours and work on either side of peak hours, or in the evening and nighttime. They should also make sure they drink sufficient water. Dr Viresh Chopra from the Oman Dental College suggests everyone, especially the elderly to avoid direct sun exposure, especially between 11 am and 4 pm 'With temperatures soaring to 39–40°C, Oman is experiencing an unusually intense summer. We should take necessary precautions by staying hydrated drinking plenty of water throughout the day by wearing light, breathable clothing and using sun protection when outdoors. Apart from these, we should make sure we keep checking on elderly family members and young children regularly. Also, never leave anyone, especially children or pets, in parked vehicles where they face risks of dehydration,' said Dr Chopra. Dr Sanjay Dalal advises families to keep their homes cool and comfortable as the mercury dips by using curtains, air conditioners and coolers. 'It is strongly advised to take ORS, homemade drinks like lassi, lime juice etc. Take a bath in cold water which helps to rehydrate the body. If you feel ill, see a doctor immediately, said Dr Dalal. Heat stress can result in heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, or heat rashes. Heat can also increase the risk of injuries in workers as it may result in sweaty palms, fogged-up safety glasses, and dizziness. 'Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee and carbonated soft drinks, sugary drinks which dehydrate the body. If you work outside, wear a hat and also use a damp cloth on your head, neck, face and limbs. Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles,' he said. Travel tips during summer: 1. Driving in extremely hot weather can be harmful to your health, and the health of your vehicle. 2. When travelling in very hot weather, always keep an eye on the temperature warning light. 3. Never leave a child alone in a car, not even for one minute 4. Check battery, tires, cooling systems regularly 5. Kill the engine while filling petrol at petrol station 5. Pack plenty of water in the car while travelling.
