WHO praises Gulf health systems as Kuwait leads among most digitally advanced in region
. . . highlights GCC role in crisis health response, as emerging model lifeline for conflict zones
The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that the health systems of Gulf Cooperation Council countries, particularly Kuwait, are among the most digitally advanced in the Eastern Mediterranean region, highlighting their growing role in shaping modern healthcare delivery.
In remarks to the Kuwait News Agency on World Health Day, observed annually on April 7 under the theme “Together for Health – Support Science,” WHO spokesperson Christian Lindmeier said Gulf countries have made significant progress in deploying digital health solutions, including telemedicine, electronic health records, and advanced healthcare platforms.
He noted that the region’s experience in health system modernization extends beyond national borders, contributing to humanitarian health responses in fragile and conflict-affected areas such as Yemen, Syria, Sudan, and the occupied Palestinian territories, where Gulf-backed health initiatives play a supporting role.
Lindmeier stressed that Gulf Cooperation Council states have rapidly expanded telemedicine and e-health systems, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, enabling them to build more resilient health infrastructures capable of withstanding future crises.
He added that the Middle East continues to face significant pressure, with armed conflicts affecting a large number of countries and placing severe strain on already fragile healthcare systems across the region, reports Al-Rai daily.
On the role of digital transformation in conflict zones, he said that artificial intelligence and modern technologies offer promising opportunities to bridge healthcare gaps, particularly in early diagnosis, patient triage, and improving supply chain management in overstretched systems.
However, he emphasized that the effectiveness of these tools remains dependent on basic infrastructure and strong governance frameworks.
At the same time, Lindmeier cautioned that artificial intelligence cannot replace core healthcare components such as doctors, nurses, facilities, and medicines, but should instead serve as a complementary tool under strict regulatory oversight to ensure ethical and effective use.
He highlighted telemedicine as one of the most effective solutions in insecure environments, allowing patients to access medical consultations remotely while reducing risks to both patients and healthcare workers. Portable diagnostic technologies, he added, are also helping to close critical service gaps in underserved areas.
Lindmeier concluded by stressing the need for stronger international cooperation, sustained investment in resilient health systems, and full protection of medical facilities and personnel in line with international humanitarian law.
He also expressed concern over the growing pattern of attacks on healthcare infrastructure in conflict zones, particularly in the Middle East, calling such practices a serious violation of international norms.
