The GLC4HSR is proud to announce the expansion of its reach to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The MENA chapter of the GLC4HSR was announced earlier this year, nested in the MENA office of ACCESS Health International in Dubai.

As the GLC4HSR grows, it becomes increasingly important to adapt its strategy to align with the contextual requirements of each region. The MENA region represents a diverse healthcare landscape and aspirations, providing an opportunity for the GLC4HSR to tailor its framework to regional needs. The GLC4HSR currently has three existing country chapters in India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka and an upcoming on in Indonesia.

Regional Goals in Focus

The MENA area has witnessed the emergence of several significant priorities that necessitate collaborative endeavors from healthcare stakeholders. To begin with, the region has a significant prevalence of Hepatitis C infection (HCV), leading numerous countries to establish ambitious objectives for eradicating the infection. Additionally, it is imperative to establish a strong alliance focused on rare diseases in order to facilitate cooperation in various domains, including research, advocacy, and patient assistance for individuals impacted by such uncommon conditions. Furthermore, the region is eager to investigate the possibilities of blockchain technology in the healthcare sector, capitalizing on its ability to securely store data, provide transparency in supply chains, and streamline payment methods. Given the swift advancement of AI applications in disease diagnosis, drug discovery, and healthcare delivery optimization, it is imperative to prioritize the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) solutions into healthcare systems.

Tailoring the GLC4HSR Approach

As a key driver of the Global Learning Collaborative for Health Systems Resilience (GLC4HSR) initiative, ACCESS Health International is actively gearing up to launch a dedicated MENA (Middle East and North Africa) Chapter. This strategic move aims to tailor the GLC4HSR approach to address the region's unique healthcare priorities effectively.

Dr. Hala Zaid, Regional Director of ACCESS Health International – MENA region and Mr. Girish Bommkantio, Director - Operations & Strategic Growth Access Health International  South Asia, SEA, Middle East & Africa, emphasizes the importance of this localized effort: " possesses a unique array of healthcare challenges and objectives. The establishment of a MENA Chapter would enable the customization of the GLC4HSR framework to suit the unique requirements of this area. This would facilitate substantial cooperation and the exchange of information among stakeholders in the region.

The inception of the MENA Chapter will signify a noteworthy progression in tackling the healthcare obstacles faced by the region by means of collaborative efforts, the sharing of knowledge, and customized resolutions. ACCESS Health International extends an invitation to all relevant parties in the MENA region—including industry representatives, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers—to collaborate in order to influence the region's future health in a more sustainable manner via the GLC4HSR initiative.

Overall, in light of the ongoing global health concerns, initiatives such as the GLC4HSR play a crucial role in promoting international collaboration and facilitating the flow of knowledge. By adopting a region-specific strategy that is customized to address the distinct requirements of the MENA area, the combined effort has the potential to initiate significant and profound changes, guaranteeing equitable access to improved health outcomes for all individuals.