In 2020, the Ministry of Health launched the virtual clinic service through the "Shifa" application. This interactive service enables doctors to have visual communication with patients remotely for monitoring, evaluating health conditions, and devising appropriate treatment plans.

Before the digital transformation:

During the spread of COVID-19 in the Sultanate of Oman in 2020, the government implemented several precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the pandemic, including restrictions on gatherings and reducing congestion in public places. The Ministry of Health introduced a telephone health consultation service as one of the options for communicating with patients and delivering health services. From this context emerged the idea of adding the virtual clinic service through the "Shifa" application.

After the digital transformation:

• Application of the service for regular check-ups and patient monitoring.
• Scheduling virtual appointments, where patients are notified via text messages and through the "Shifa" application.
• Conducting virtual patient examinations through audio and video.

Impact of the digital transformation:

• Elimination of financial costs.
• Alleviation of patient travel burdens from different areas.
• Reduction of congestion in healthcare facilities.