MEDITECH 2005 to focus on progressive health approaches

The exhibition, organized by ACG, is diversifying in response to the region's medical requirements and is expected to witness a sharp increase in experts, trade visitors and exhibitors in 2005, providing an ideal platform to serve the strategic health modernization plans in the region.

Ahmed Ghozzi, Chairman of ACG said, 'MEDITECH plays a key facilitating role in the provision of health services and technology in the MENA region by bringing together leading international manufacturers and suppliers to cater to health needs, and has evolved into a powerful industry forum to address the medical needs of the region. The exhibition provides a platform for trade that lets medical equipment and infrastructure reach where it is most needed. With the Middle East evolving rapidly as a hub for commerce and business initiatives, there is greater need to recognize the growing threat of contagious chronic health problems such as Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), where a reactive approach does not suffice in coping with strategic health ramifications. MEDITECH will be a key forum in stirring progressive action to contribute infrastructural solutions.'

'We are seeing a growing shift from curative to preventative approaches for health issues afflicting parts of Middle East and North Africa as the region becomes a hotspot for investments in medical infrastructure and health provision services. For instance, The Ministry of Health and Population in Egypt has undertaken an ambitious Health Sector Reform Programme (HSRP) to modernize the nation's health system and the African Development Bank, European Commission, USAID and the World Bank are all active in improving developing healthcare and furthering medical services in the region. There is recognized need for improving the provision of clear information and means of prevention. Health progression programs should be drawn up based on situational context, with concrete impact evaluation plans and dedicated resources,' added Gozzi.

HIV/AIDS is not an issue that can be managed with standard public health strategies, and health services alone cannot tackle the expanse of issues that exacerbate vulnerability. A coordinated, multi-sectoral response is required that includes the collusion of government departments, nongovernmental organizations and community-based groups and bilateral donors. As yet, reported STD cases in the Middle East are far below figures for Africa, South and South East Asia and parts of the Caribbean but there is danger that sudden outbreaks may go unnoticed in marginalized social groups due to inadequate surveillance methods.

'There is urgent need for increased capacity building in the areas of relief health as well as greater integration of health programs, with higher regional co-operation. MEDITECH has become a potent force for spreading awareness about upcoming medical technology in the region, and is an ideal business platform for strategic heath provision as suppliers, clients and experts come together to establish trade networks that will ultimately result in better medical services for the entire region,' concluded Ghozzi.