The healthcare industry is undergoing a massive transformation, propelled by the introduction of digital assets and innovative solutions like technological upgrade coupled with a cultural shift towards agility, operational excellence, and a seamless experience, all while reducing costs.
But what lies in store for the UAE as it rides this digital health wave?
Recent research by Grand View Research, Inc., forecasts the global digital health market to soar to an astounding USD 809 billion by 2030, boasting an annual growth rate of 18% throughout the projection period. In line with this, a Statista Report predicts an 11.08% yearly surge in the UAE's digital health market from 2023 to 2027, culminating in a market value of USD 798.80 million by 2027.
These remarkable figures showcase a bright horizon for the UAE's healthcare sector, bolstered by a robust infrastructure, highly skilled professionals, and an unwavering government commitment to sectoral investments.
So what catalysts are propelling this seismic shift, and how will the UAE's healthcare sector embrace the impending changes? Join us as we embark on a fascinating exploration of the digital health realm and delve into the UAE's healthcare prospects in 2027.
Factors Driving Adoption of Digital Health in UAE
Over the next 5 to 7 years, the healthcare industry is set to undergo significant changes driven by a multitude of factors—these range from changing demographics to the rise of empowered patients.
Let's take a look at some of the key factors that are expected to shape the evolution of healthcare:
- Population Boom: As per the Population Reference Bureau, the MENA region saw the highest population growth rate in the world during the 20th century, and this trend is set to continue. While this growth is a positive sign, it also puts strain on services. This is especially true for the UAE, where people have easy access to health care.
- Rise of Chronic Diseases: The Lancet, a renowned medical journal, conducted research on health in the Arab world in 2014 and discovered that while communicable diseases are on the decline, non-communicable ones, including high blood pressure, heart diseases, and diabetes, are on the rise, increasing the need of healthcare facilities.
- From Ignorance to Empowerment: The rise of the internet has completely transformed how people access information and learn new things. In the healthcare industry, this means that patients are more knowledgeable than ever about their health and various treatment options.
- Increase in Investment: A new era of investment has shifted towards mandatory health insurance. The private and government sectors are both investing heavily in the healthcare industry. As per recent reports, UAE Health and Medical Insurance Market are poised to grow at a CAGR of 5 % by 2027.
- Technological Leap: While technology improves healthcare by enabling better diagnostics, data collection, and integrated care, these changes come at a cost. A Willis Towers Watson 2017 Global Medical Trends Survey Report, for instance, shows that 63% of insurers attribute rising medical costs to new technologies.
Strategic Focus Areas for Market Expansion
The proactive integration of technology and the healthcare sector in the UAE adds significant value to both people and healthcare organisations, ultimately maximising benefits. In response to the demands and expectations of UAE residents, the government is concentrating on the following areas:
- Digital Therapeutics: The latest findings from Grand View Research reveal that the worldwide therapeutics market boasts a valuation of USD 4.20 billion in 2021 and is projected to experience a remarkable compound annual growth rate of 26.1% from 2022 to 2030. This growth is attributed to several factors, including the widespread adoption of smartphones, the cost-efficient nature of digital health technology for healthcare providers and patients alike, and the growing need for a comprehensive, patient-focused healthcare system.
- Teleconsultation Services: The realm of remote healthcare services has been revolutionised by the advent of virtual consultations, which encompass phone, video, or chat services. As demand for remote healthcare services surges, teleconsultation has witnessed unprecedented growth. According to recent reports by Statista, teleconsultation's user penetration is projected to reach 3.78% in 2023, with an expected rise to 4.13% by 2027.
- Chronic Condition Management Apps: The growing prevalence of chronic ailments, including heart disease and diabetes, underscores the significance of easily accessible and efficacious management solutions. As a consequence, chronic condition management apps have surged in UAE, offering a plethora of advantages like easy tracking and monitoring of symptoms, personalised health advice, and more.
- Nutritional Guidance Apps: For those who prioritise their well-being and strive for a healthier lifestyle, nutritional guidance apps offer a convenient and effective solution. These apps cater to individuals who wish to enhance their dietary habits and fitness regime by creating custom-tailored nutrition plans and monitoring meal and fitness activities. With these applications, people can stay on track with their health objectives and have a helping hand in attaining their targets.
- Fitness Tracking Apps: As per a recent survey, the use of fitness tracking apps is projected to surge in the UAE, with an expected rise of 26.82% by 2023 and 42.53% by 2027. The integration of these apps with wearable technology has transformed the fitness journey of users, offering them a hassle-free and convenient experience. With this integration, people can effortlessly track their fitness goals and monitor their progress, making it more manageable and efficient to attain their desired health outcomes.
As we bring this journey to a close, it becomes apparent that the synergistic melding of state-of-the-art solutions and digital assets within the healthcare sector will undoubtedly revolutionise the landscape, unlocking a treasure trove of possibilities for growth and advancement in the coming years.
This transformation promises to usher in a more efficient, modern, and automated healthcare service system in the UAE, enhancing the overall well-being of individuals and communities alike. The healthcare sector is all set to undergo a remarkable metamorphosis by leveraging technology to enhance the accessibility, affordability, and efficacy of healthcare services.
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