Muscat – Dr. Rashid bin Mohammed Al Alawi, Director General of Khoula Hospital, highlighted the hospital’s commitment to improving healthcare quality and addressing patient needs in a timely manner. Key strategies include increasing the number of qualified medical personnel, enhancing operational efficiency, introducing advanced medical equipment, and improving coordination between departments to expedite procedures.

The hospital has made significant progress, performing over 21,900 surgeries across various specialties in 2024, a notable increase from the previous years. In 2023 and 2022, the hospital performed more than 19,700 surgeries. These efforts have been supported by the addition of evening and same-day surgeries in specialties like ophthalmology, orthopaedics, general surgery, dentistry, ENT (ear, nose, and throat), and neurosurgery.

Dr. Al Alawi also emphasised the role of the day care building in boosting surgical operations, contributing to more than 5,000 additional surgeries. The hospital is aiming to conduct over 10,000 surgeries in this facility, with full support from the Ministry of Health and both government and private sector partners.

In terms of diagnostic services, Khoula Hospital has significantly reduced the waiting list for MRI scans. In 2024, the hospital conducted over 16,400 MRI scans, up from 10,000 in 2023, and reduced the waiting period for appointments from 18 months to less than three days. Currently, about 270 MRI scans are performed weekly.

Khoula Hospital has also introduced specialised services in several fields, including colon and rectal surgery, breast surgeries for benign and malignant tumors, vascular surgery, and cerebral catheterization. Additionally, the hospital has localized key medical services, such as early scoliosis surgeries, hand surgeries, and corneal transplants. In 2024, more than 80 corneas were transplanted, and over 720 cochlear implants were performed.

Dr. Al Alawi further pointed out significant advancements in hospital infrastructure, including the renovation and upgrading of operating rooms and surgery departments. The opening of Oman’s first government fertility centre and a new department for treating chronic pain enhances the hospital’s comprehensive service offerings. Furthermore, maternity and emergency services for women and childbirth have been expanded to meet the growing healthcare needs.