HealthBeats

In this episode, we’re joined by Jim Campbell, Director of Health Workforce at the World Health Organization (WHO), for a thought-provoking conversation about the global mission to deliver universal health coverage for everyone, everywhere.Jim reflects on WHO’s founding purpose: ensuring that people across low-, middle-, and high-income countries, including the most vulnerable groups, have access to essential health services. But in today’s world, it’s not just diseases that threaten that mission. From climate change and natural disasters to rapid turnover in global health leadership--ministers of health changing every 19 months on average--the challenge of building consistent, sustainable policy is immense.Jim shares insights into how WHO navigates these complexities while remaining grounded in evidence, science, and consensus-building. With 194 member states, 6 regional offices, and a deeply collaborative structure, WHO acts as both a science-led institution and a political platform, balancing difference with unity, and data with diplomacy.Tune in to understand what it takes to shape global health policy in a rapidly evolving world and why, for Jim, building consensus is both a privilege and a necessity.

Join us as we dive into the cutting-edge world of omics and its potential to transform healthcare in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. Our expert guest will unravel how genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics are ushering in a new era of personalised medicine, preventive care, and targeted therapies. Discover how these revolutionary technologies are not just improving patient outcomes but also reshaping healthcare policies, infrastructure, and economies across the GCC. From tackling region-specific health challenges to positioning the GCC as a global biotech hub, this episode promises to be an enlightening journey into the future of healthcare.

In this episode of #HealthBeats, Hein van Eck, Regional CEO of Mediclinic Middle East, shares how his organisation has redefined what it means to deliver healthcare in a world moving steadily toward value-based care.Hein takes us inside Mediclinic’s transformation, from modest beginnings to becoming one of the region’s most integrated healthcare systems. He explains how the organisation built a strong foundation by attracting quality medical professionals, layering in electronic health records, developing digital interfaces with patients, and forming key partnerships, including with the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi.At the core of this journey is a firm belief in the power of prevention. From screening programmes and genetic labs to precision medicine, Hein highlights how Mediclinic is contributing to the UAE’s national mission: putting prevention at the centre of healthcare for a healthier, more productive society.

Mehdi Ghissassi, Chief Product Officer at AI 71, discusses how generative AI is reshaping healthcare, from easing the burden on administrative staff to improving communication between patients and healthcare providers. He shares insights into the practical applications AI 71 is developing and how these innovations are already delivering tangible benefits.The conversation highlights AI as one of the most scientific and transformative endeavours of our time, with healthcare as a key domain where its impact is deeply human. Mehdi reflects on whether the rapid growth of AI has aligned with his expectations and reveals some of the most surprising developments he has encountered along the way.A compelling look at the intersection of technology and healthcare and what lies ahead.

In this powerful conversation, Dr Zain Ali Al Yafei, CEO of Sakina, an asset of PureHealth, shares how they are transforming mental health care in Abu Dhabi, one citizen at a time, through the innovative Pura app.Dr Zain discusses the growing recognition that mental health is just as vital as physical health, and how leadership in the UAE is embracing this holistic approach to wellbeing. He explores how the government's commitment is enabling mental health support not only for individuals, but also at an organisational level, contributing to happier workplaces, improved quality of life, and ultimately, a stronger national economy.Tune in to learn how technology, leadership vision, and cultural shifts are converging to prioritise mental wellness in the region like never before.

In this visionary episode, Reenita Das, Partner & Senior Vice President at Frost & Sullivan, unpacks the urgent shift from reactive "sickcare" systems to proactive, outcome-driven healthcare. She introduces the concept of wellness insurance a model that focuses on keeping people well through preventive screenings and early intervention, rather than just treating illness after it strikes.Reenita dives into the consumerisation of healthcare, forecasting how wearable tech, personalised insights, and everyday data will reshape how we manage health over the next 15–20 years. One of her biggest ambitions? Making health risk screenings universal accessible to everyone, not just the privileged few.She also raises awareness around the growing challenge of ADHD, advocating for a future-ready system that’s resilient, inclusive, and better equipped to support neurodivergent individuals. Drawing on a major recent study she led, Reenita also shares key lessons from countries best prepared for future pandemics and the global playbook for emergency preparedness we urgently need to adopt.And that’s just the beginning this conversation is packed with bold ideas, expert insights, and a call to reimagine healthcare as we know it.

Vice President, Health Economics, Market Access and Reimbursement at J&J Innovative Medicine, EMEA discusses the process of discovery, testing and regulation for new medications.

In this episode, Steve Gardner sits down with Paul Jones, CEO of Biopharma Solutions at M42, to explore the transformative potential of genomic science across the biopharma value chain and more. From large-scale DNA sequencing to the real-world applications of genomics in personalising medicine, Paul shares how this powerful technology is reshaping drug development, disease prediction, and clinical trials.Discover what a genome is, how it’s sequenced, and why it matters. Learn how pharma and biotech industries are leveraging genomic data to develop precision medicines tailored to people like you. The conversation also delves into the role of genomics in preventative healthcare and its emerging impact in pharmacogenetics, where treatments are tailored based on individual genetic profiles.

Elodie Robin-Guillerm, Head of Global Clusters at the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), shares how Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a global centre of excellence in health and life sciences, and why the Emirate is becoming a destination of choice for forward-thinking investors.Guiding the discussion is Steve Gardner, Healthbeats host and MD of Healthcare World.

In this episode, we’re joined by Alan Dubovsky, Chief Patient Experience Officer at Cedars-Sinai, and Noha Hacach, Regional Managing Director, for a deep dive into how Cedars-Sinai’s renowned patient experience programme in the United States is being adapted for the Middle East.Together, they explore the process of assessing regional market needs, customising care models, and personalising experiences for patients in culturally diverse environments. From analysing patient feedback to implementing targeted improvement initiatives, the conversation highlights both the parallels and distinctions between healthcare delivery in the U.S. and Abu Dhabi, including cultural nuances, gender considerations, and the role of government in shaping healthcare expectations.Tune in as we discuss how global standards are evolving to meet rising expectations and how Cedars-Sinai is reshaping what exceptional patient experience means in the region.