In 2020, the Ministry of Health launched the Virtual Clinic Service through the Shifa application as a digital solution to provide remote healthcare. The service enables doctors to communicate with patients via video, monitor their health conditions, provide medical consultations, and develop appropriate treatment plans without the need for in-person visits.

The Service Before Digital Transformation

In response to the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in Oman and in support of precautionary measures to limit the spread of the virus, such as reducing gatherings and limiting movement in public facilities, the Ministry of Health initially introduced telephone medical consultations. This service laid the groundwork for the development of the Virtual Clinic via the Shifa application.

The Service After Digital Transformation

• Real-time remote monitoring of patients’ health conditions.
• Scheduling of virtual appointments with notifications sent via SMS and the Shifa app.
• Conducting audio and video consultation sessions between doctors and patients.
  
  

Achieved Impact of Digital Transformation

• Reduced operational costs for healthcare entities.
• Minimised the need for patients in remote areas to travel for medical consultations.
• Decreased congestion in healthcare facilities, particularly during health crises and emergencies.