Muscat – Oman has called for greater investment in resilient health systems, stronger primary healthcare and universal health coverage to ensure equitable access to essential services, particularly for vulnerable communities and people affected by crises.

The call was made by H E Dr Hilal bin Ali Al Sabti, Minister of Health, who led Oman’s delegation to the 73rd session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean in Cairo, Egypt.

Dr Al Sabti, Vice-Chair of the committee, said Oman was translating regional health priorities into tangible national action. The sultanate has maintained polio vaccination coverage of more than 99% while strengthening disease surveillance, preparedness and response systems.

Oman is also intensifying efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance, guided by the Muscat Ministerial Declaration of 2022, while promoting the One Health approach and cooperation across sectors.

The minister highlighted digital transformation, data and artificial intelligence as strategic opportunities to improve healthcare delivery. He stressed the need for clear governance frameworks, interoperability between digital systems and the responsible use of technology to improve service quality and support evidence-based decisions.

Addressing regional challenges, H E Dr Al Sabti called for greater solidarity, the exchange of expertise and data, and stronger capacity-building. He also emphasised the need to support countries affected by conflicts and emergencies, protect healthcare workers and health facilities, and ensure the continuity of essential health services for affected populations.

The session is being held under the theme ‘Together for a Healthier Future: Action, Access, Equity‘ from October 13 to 15, bringing together health leaders and policymakers to address shared challenges and strengthen regional cooperation.

Key issues on the agenda include health financing and financial protection, integrated approaches to tackling infectious diseases, responses to public health emergencies and efforts to eradicate polio.

A panel discussion on the final day will examine the priorities and considerations surrounding the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare across the Eastern Mediterranean region.

Dr Al Sabti reaffirmed Oman’s commitment to working with the WHO and member states to turn regional priorities into sustainable improvements in public health and advance universal health coverage.