Gangnam JS Hospital Leads Push to Expand Korean Medical Services in Qatar
DOHA, QATAR – November 6, 2023 - A Korean medical delegation, led by representatives from Gangnam JS Hospital and Asan Medical Center, concluded a series of high-level meetings in Qatar this week, signaling a strengthened commitment to bilateral healthcare collaboration.The visit, which took place from November 2nd to 5th, focused on expanding access to Korean medical expertise for Qatari patients and fostering joint initiatives in advanced medical technologies.
The delegation, accompanied by Lee Hyung-hoon, the 2nd vice Minister of Health and Welfare, engaged in the 1st joint Operations Committee with Ghanim Ali Al-Mana, Assistant Undersecretary of the Ministry of Public health of Qatar. Discussions centered on four key areas: increasing the number of Qatari patients receiving treatment in Korea, establishing training programs for Qatari medical professionals within Korean institutions, facilitating the deployment of Korean medical personnel to Qatar, and collaborating on cutting-edge advancements in medical technology.
Gangnam JS Hospital showcased its pioneering work in degenerative arthritis treatment utilizing stem cell therapy,highlighting its experience with over 3,000 umbilical cord blood stem cell transplants and successful outcomes with prominent Middle Eastern patients,including royalty and high-ranking officials. The hospital proposed expanding patient referral programs from Qatar and exploring joint research opportunities.
Further discussions explored the potential implementation of Korean innovations such as smart hospital models, digital healthcare solutions, and advancements in stem cell regenerative medicine.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare, the Korea Health Industry Development Institute, Asan Medical Center, and Gangnam JS Hospital are now planning follow-up consultations with the Qatari Ministry of Public Health to increase government-funded patient referrals and bolster medical training cooperation.
“Saudi Arabia and Qatar are strategic key countries for the expansion of Korean medical services in the Middle east,” stated Vice Minister Lee. ”The government and private medical institutions will collaborate to enhance the global competitiveness of Korean medical services.”
Song joon-seop, representative director of gangnam JS Hospital, emphasized the significance of the visit, stating, “It is indeed meaningful to participate locally in the Middle East representing Korean medical services. We will actively cooperate to standardize non-surgical joint treatment centered on stem cell therapy globally.”