When reflecting on 2020 and the quarter of 2021, there are a myriad of lessons that we must take from the pandemic as we move forward.

One lesson in particular that I have taken from the past year is the critical need for accelerated investment, innovation and positive impact in the healthcare industry.

As thought leaders, we must be proactive rather than reactive. It is not enough to simply utilise the resources we have. Instead, we must always seek to expedite the process of research, development, innovation and education. In doing so, we can ensure that we are fully equipped to not only deal with the unknown, but stop it in its tracks and emerge stronger as a result.

At KEF, we have learned to lead through positive impact – powered by the belief that technology is the answer to some of the most pressing challenges in healthcare. We do this by upskilling a larger pool of doctors through clinical care pathways and assisted surgeries, measuring outcomes and using the collected data, intelligence and insights to improve healthcare delivery continually, and in the way we operate our hospitals.

What do you think the biggest economic game changer will be over the next five years?

The need for technologically enabled innovative healthcare models is more important than ever. As we navigate and subsequently emerge and move on from this pandemic over the next five years, our ability to develop a collaborative ecosystem of services to enhance the overall healthcare portfolio across the globe will be the real game-changer.

This can be achieved through technological innovation and the creation of asset-light models that can be replicated – models such as the Meitra Care Network (MCN). MCN is a futuristic, innovative healthcare ecosystem that leverages technology to bring quality care closer to the patient. It is able to successfully introduce technologically enabled critical care and device-assisted telemedicine services in both private and public sector hospitals, where scale and quality healthcare are essential.

What are the biggest opportunities that growing trade relations between India and UAE represent?

Developing relationships through investment, infrastructure and healthcare at private and public levels are key drivers in the creation of strategic opportunities between India and the UAE.

Advanced, cutting-edge technology, such as fintech and healthtech, should be leveraged to cultivate a culture of knowledge exchange, skill sharing and investment between the two countries

Faizal Kottikollon on… the biggest economic game-changer

“Our ability to develop a collaborative ecosystem of services to enhance the overall healthcare portfolio across the globe will be the real game-changer. This can be achieved through technological innovation and the creation of asset-light models that can be replicated.”