MUSCAT : Aster Royal Al Raffah Hospital, Muscat, Oman, part of GCC’s leading integrated healthcare provider Aster DM Healthcare, has announced the launch of the Aster Al Raffah International Comprehensive Cancer Care Center, a significant milestone in advancing cancer care services in Oman.

As an integral part of the ‘Treat in Oman’ initiative, the center aims to provide cutting-edge oncology services, including daycare chemotherapy sessions, reducing the need for patients to travel abroad for specialized treatment. Equipped with advanced diagnostic capabilities and a multidisciplinary team of experts, the facility offers comprehensive cancer care tailored to meet the needs of patients within the Sultanate.

The launch of this state-of-the-art center aligns with Oman’s vision to enhance its healthcare sector and ensure specialized, accessible treatment for all citizens. The center will play a vital role in supporting the country’s cancer care framework, improving patient outcomes, and easing the burden on international healthcare travel.

The inauguration was led by His Excellency, Dr. Ahmed Bin Salim Al Mandhari, Undersecretary for Planning and Health Regulation, Oman Ministry of Health, in the presence of Ms. Alisha Moopen, Managing Director & Group CEO, Aster DM Healthcare, Dr. Sherbaz Bichu, CEO, Aster Hospitals and Clinics, UAE, Oman & Bahrain, Mr. Shailesh Guntu, Chief Executive Officer, Aster Hospitals and Clinics, Oman, and esteemed government officials from the Ministry of Health.

His Excellency, Dr. Ahmed Bin Salim Al Mandhari, Undersecretary for Planning and Health Regulation, Oman Ministry of Health, expressed his appreciation for this milestone, stating, “The establishment of the Aster Al Raffah International Comprehensive Cancer Care Center reinforces our vision to strengthen the healthcare infrastructure in Oman. By ensuring access to specialized oncology services, including daycare chemotherapy, we are making significant strides in enhancing the quality of care available to our citizens. This initiative aligns with our commitment to fostering a healthier future for our people.”

Ms. Alisha Moopen, Managing Director & Group CEO, Aster DM Healthcare highlighted Aster’s vision for accessible and advanced cancer care, saying, “Our goal has always been to bring world-class healthcare closer to the communities we serve. With the launch of this comprehensive cancer care center, we are reaffirming our commitment to providing specialized and compassionate cancer treatment within Oman. The ‘Treat in Oman’ initiative is a crucial step in ensuring that patients receive expert care without the need to travel abroad, allowing them to heal in the comfort of their home country.”

Dr. Sherbaz Bichu, CEO, Aster Hospitals and Clinics, UAE, Oman & Bahrain, emphasized the impact of the new center on the local healthcare ecosystem, stating, ‘This launch marks a new era in cancer care in Oman. By integrating cutting-edge technology and a patient-centric approach, we aim to provide holistic oncology services, including daycare chemotherapy, that cater to the diverse needs of our patients. Our multidisciplinary team will work collaboratively to ensure personalized treatment plans that enhance recovery and improve outcomes. Treating cancer is not a single event but a complex, evolving journey that spans diagnosis, treatment, recovery, and sometimes long-term management. It requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving oncologists, nurses, therapists, mental health professionals, and a strong support system. We have launched a community-based support group called ‘COSMOS’ – Circle of Strength, Master of Self. This initiative addresses the psychological needs of our patients along their journey. They are paired with a survivor who has successfully won the battle and is now a survivor.”

Reiterating Aster’s dedication to medical excellence, Mr. Shailesh Guntu, Chief Executive Officer, Aster Hospitals and Clinics, Oman, remarked, “The Aster Al Raffah International Comprehensive Cancer Care Center is a significant step in our mission to deliver world-class oncology treatment in Oman. Our focus remains on providing comprehensive cancer care, including expert consultations, specialized laboratory tests, advanced imaging, daycare chemotherapy, and access to a team of skilled oncologists. Through this initiative, we strive to create a robust and accessible healthcare system that meets the needs of our community.”

The center offers a comprehensive range of oncology services, with a special focus on daycare chemotherapy sessions, oral chemotherapy treatments, expert consultations, specialized laboratory tests, and advanced radiological imaging. The multidisciplinary team consists of specialists in general surgery, breast surgery, colorectal surgery, neurosurgery, urological surgery, and gynecological surgery. Additionally, the center provides blood transfusion services, further ensuring that patients receive all the care they need under one roof.

To further raise awareness about the importance of timely cancer diagnosis and treatment, Aster organized a community bike ride in the evening. The event was flagged off from Aster Royal Al Raffah Hospital and covered key locations in the city before culminating at the hospital, where a closing event was held. This initiative highlights Aster’s commitment to promoting cancer awareness and encouraging early detection, ultimately contributing to better patient outcomes.

With the launch of the Aster Al Raffah International Comprehensive Cancer Care Center, Aster DM Healthcare continues to set new benchmarks in oncology services, reaffirming its mission to provide cutting-edge medical care within Oman. This initiative marks a significant leap forward in ensuring that patients receive world-class cancer treatment close to home, reinforcing the Sultanate’s position as a hub for advanced healthcare in the region.