Healthcare systems and health economics in GCC countries: informing decision-makers from the perspective of the Gulf health economics association
This paper, authored by experts from the Gulf Health Economics Association, including: Yazed AIRuthia, along with esteemed co-authors Hana A. Al-Abdulkarim, President of the Saudi ISPOR Chapter, and Suliman Alghnam, PhD, Chairman of the ISPOR Arabic Network Executive Committee, explores healthcare systems and the evolving role of health economics across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
These nations—Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia—have made significant strides in providing universal healthcare. However, challenges remain, particularly in ensuring access to and reimbursement for new health technologies amid rising healthcare demand.
The study was initiated by the Gulf Health Economics Association to address key gaps in existing research, particularly around the economic evaluation processes, health policy decision-making, and implementation of cost-effectiveness strategies in the region.
