As the regional managing director of Olympus, a high-end optical and digital precision technology manufacturer - what do you think is currently driving the healthcare industry forward, both in the MENA region and globally? 

The healthcare system is up against enormous challenges, such as our ageing and growing populations, and the emergence of worldwide epidemic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and cancer. However, a collaborative approach by hospitals, health technology companies and government authorities to place patient care in the forefront can bridge the gap between bringing innovation forward that can change patient care and drive integration into health systems. The UAE in particular has been ahead of the curve when it comes to setting up healthcare infrastructure.

What current trends do you see specifically in the UAE healthcare industry and what do you see as the growth areas going forward?

The UAE healthcare sector is expanding rapidly to meet both the evolving needs of a growing population and the nation’s ambition to become a regional medical tourism hub. The UAE has created an infrastructure of healthcare services increasingly recognised as being on par with international standards and the health issues that affect the population today are also those faced by many in the developed world.

What are the long-term growth opportunities that you see in the region? How is Olympus enhancing its commitment to the region?

Our focus and commitment in the region is testified by the establishment of our new regional centre in Dubai. The new 2,000 square metres facility hosts not just the sales and management centre, but also one of the world’s most advanced service workshops.  Additionally, the centre hosts a large-scale training facility, expected to transfer critical high technology knowledge to some 500 specialists in the region.The advanced showroom at the sales centre is a focal point for customers and introduces them to the range of Olympus technology across healthcare, energy, aviation, construction, mining and metals among others. Our customers in the MEA now benefit with direct, rapid access and response from the highly skilled teams in the region and all the services across the complete Olympus portfolio.

What, according to you, are the main ideas/strategies that will transform the healthcare industry of the future?

Healthcare is evolving rapidly and being impacted by numerous factors - changes in reimbursement, emerging technologies, new care-delivery models, digital health and health tech, artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, diagnostic devices for early detection, etc. All these will have a great impact on the future of the healthcare industry.

How important is innovation in healthcare? What are the technological, medical and strategic innovations that your company brings to the healthcare arena? 

Without a doubt the pace at which new technology is impacting our everyday lives is increasing at fast speeds. From wearable technology like google glass to Hybrid Operating Rooms and 3D printed biological materials, all these technologies are starting to allow healthcare practitioners to offer cheaper, faster and more efficient patient care than ever before, which is certainly a step in the right direction.

Product innovation at Olympus, and the eventual commercialisation of all Olympus products, is rooted in the company's policy of developing advanced technologies with the next 10 years in mind. New ideas and new technologies from Olympus will lead to brighter futures for individuals and society.

In addition to our expanding lineup of endoscope instruments and energy devices for surgical procedures, we are also developing surgical energy devices for localised medical treatment in fields including otology, urology and gynaecology.

What products or technology will you be showcasing at Arab Health 2018?

We will showcase the latest imaging platform Visera Elite II surgical endoscope system with Infra-Red imaging capability. Also, we are showcasing our fully integrated reprocessing area and the latest generation dedicated to electrosurgery unit for the Endoscopist, the ESG-300. You will also find at the Olympus booth Evis Exera III and EU-ME 2 Premier Plus Ultrasound system, Endocapsule.

How has Arab Health aided your company’s yearly strategy in developing business opportunities in this growing region?

 For many years, Olympus has been a platinum sponsor at Arab Health. Being part of this largest healthcare business platform gives us numerous opportunities to reach new and potential customers from across the region; and indeed, it is an important feature of our marketing strategy.

What, according to you, are the real benefits and opportunities available to healthcare and trade professionals to attend Arab Health?

Being the largest healthcare conference and trade show in the Middle East, it is significant for us to be present and showcase our portfolio of technologies and healthcare solutions at Arab Health. It is also a great opportunity to network with industry leaders and stay abreast of the industry's latest trends and developments.