SGH Dammam achieves HIMSS Stage 6 Certification, strengthening its leadership in digital healthcare transformation
Saudi German Hospital – Dammam (SGH Dammam) has been awarded the prestigious HIMSS Stage 6 Certification, further cementing its position as a pioneer in digital healthcare transformation in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.
The certification awarded by the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) recognises SGH Dammam's advanced implementation of electronic medical records (EMR) and digital infrastructure. This achievement highlights the hospital's commitment to advancing healthcare through innovative, patient-centric technology. By earning this recognition, SGH Dammam reaffirms its commitment to enhancing patient safety, streamlining operations, and delivering high-quality medical care through cutting-edge digital solutions.
Commenting on this recognition, Makarem Sobhi Batterjee, Vice Chairman of Saudi German Health, stated: 'We are incredibly proud to be awarded the HIMSS Stage 6 certification. This certification validates our unwavering commitment to advancing healthcare by utilising technology for the benefit of our patients and the broader community. This achievement demonstrates our ongoing efforts to provide high-quality, tech-enabled healthcare solutions that prioritise safety, efficiency, and exceptional patient care.'
With the HIMSS Stage 6 certification, SGH Dammam continues to set the standard for digital healthcare transformation. The integration of advanced technologies has enhanced clinical workflows, improved decision-making, and elevated patient safety. SGH Dammam's commitment to embracing these innovations ensures that patients enjoy a streamlined, efficient healthcare experience focused on their well-being.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Khaleej Times
4 days ago
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Some schools issue chickenpox advisories, doctors urge vaccinations
Doctors in the UAE are urging parents to ensure their children are vaccinated against chickenpox. This advisory follows health notices issued by a few schools after some reported cases of chickenpox. Institutions have also observed instances of scarlet fever, a bacterial infection, among students. Medics explained that chickenpox, a contagious viral infection, tends to see increased activity during the warmer months. Higher temperatures can contribute to the spread of the virus, especially in environments where children are in close contact for extended periods. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. Immunise with two doses Dr Hamza Rahhal, Pediatric Consultant at Saudi German Hospital Dubai, said the increase in chickenpox cases is noticeable in school environments. 'There has indeed been an increase in reported chickenpox (varicella) cases among children, particularly within school environments,' he said. Rahhal linked the trend to missed immunisations during the pandemic. 'During the pandemic, many routine childhood vaccinations were delayed or missed. Some parents may also have postponed non-essential clinic visits. This has left a cohort of children either unvaccinated or partially immunised, increasing susceptibility.' Echoing the concern, Dr Mohamed Shahid Padiyar, Specialist Pediatrician at Medcare Hospital Sharjah, noted a change in how the disease is presenting in some children. 'There has definitely been an increase in chickenpox cases recently, particularly among school-aged children. We're seeing more intense symptoms than usual in some cases — higher fevers, more widespread and inflamed rashes, and increased skin infections due to scratching,' he said. 'In rare cases, children develop complications like pneumonia or neurological symptoms, especially if they have a weakened immune system.' Dr Mamata Bothra, Specialist in Pediatrics and Neonatology at International Modern Hospital Dubai, added that high summer temperatures and poor immunity can worsen the situation. 'Severe chickenpox infections can be seen in individuals with weak immunity and with certain medical conditions. Rising summer temperature also can increase the chances of spread of virus,' she said. 'Prevention is possible and most important is to vaccinate the child at right age and complete two doses as recommended. Beyond vaccination, practice good hygiene and avoid exposure to infected individuals.' Cases in primary sections Meanwhile, one Dubai school, in a recent circular shared with parents, confirmed a few cases of chickenpox within its primary section. The school circular read, 'We are writing to inform you that a few cases of chickenpox have recently been reported in our Primary School. These include two students (in Year 2 and KG2) and one staff member. Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral infection, and we are taking all necessary precautions to protect the health and wellbeing of our school community.' The communication further assured parents of the steps taken to contain the spread. 'The affected individuals are isolating at home, and all impacted classrooms and shared areas were thoroughly disinfected. The situation is being closely monitored by the school's medical team. Parents have been informed that chickenpox typically has an incubation period of 10 to 21 days, with early symptoms including fever, fatigue, and red, itchy spots that often begin on the chest or abdomen.' Institutions clarified the protocol followed by their network of schools. Dr Mirrah Kandil, Group Medical Director at GEMS Education, 'Only when we have a confirmed case, do we notify the health authority and share an exposure hazard letter with parents. This informs parents about what to be aware of in terms of potential symptoms and to seek medical assistance early.' 'We have not seen a significant rise in cases in GEMS schools. We maintain a central infection control database, in which we log all cases across the GEMS group — and we have not seen any spikes,' she added. 'Chickenpox is a vaccine-preventable disease, and we urge parents and guardians to get timely vaccinations. Prevention is better than cure.' Other school leaders also reported scattered infections and outlined the response measures being followed. Dr Arogya Reddy, Principal of Ambassador School Sharjah, said while chickenpox cases haven't been reported at their school, scarlet fever has emerged among students. 'We've observed a few illnesses circulating in schools here. In addition to chickenpox, scarlet fever is also making rounds. While we haven't recorded any chickenpox cases in our school, we have seen instances of scarlet fever, which is infectious.' Reddy emphasised the school's detailed response protocol in such cases. 'Our protocol involves identifying the affected student, informing their family, and then notifying the relevant authorities, specifically the Preventive Department under the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP). Depending on the severity of the case, students are required to stay home for at least seven days. Upon their return, they must present a Fitness Certificate issued by their treating doctor.'
Arabian Business
30-05-2025
- Arabian Business
Sultan Batterjee on turning IHCC into Saudi Arabia's leading turnkey construction company
Sultan Batterjee doesn't just build Healthcare facilities or residential projects– he builds ecosystems. As Chairman & CEO of IHCC, he's led the delivery of more than 25 advanced healthcare campuses across the Middle East, transformed the company into one of Saudi Arabia's top contracting companies. But Sultan Batterjee's ambition runs deeper than just infrastructure. Whether retrofitting 3,300 schools for energy savings or launching the Kingdom's first Marriott Autograph hotel through a Saudi-born concept, Batterjee is clear on one thing – developments, when done right, can change lives. In this rare interview, he explains how legacy shapes his leadership, why wellness is central to his development strategy, and where IHCC is heading next. As CEO of IHCC for over 18 years, you've established it as a world-renowned turnkey solution provider. What do you consider your most significant achievement in transforming healthcare infrastructure in the MENA region? One of my most significant achievements has been transforming IHCC into a trusted partner for world-class healthcare infrastructure in the MENA region and a turnkey solutions provider across multiple industries including education, healthcare, hospitality and complex projects. We have delivered over 25 hospitals and medical cities, including flagship projects like Saudi German Hospital in Dammam, Saudi German Hospital in Cairo, and other medical cities throughout the Kingdom in across the MENA. What sets IHCC apart is our holistic turnkey model – we design, build, equip, and even manage healthcare ecosystems that are tailored to the region's clinical, cultural, and economic needs. We also deliver high-performance building solutions, and we use innovative and sustainable methods to create buildings that are energy efficient, comfortable and durable. In 2021, we became the first organisation in Saudi Arabia to achieve the WELL Health and Safety rating that demonstrates our adherence to the highest standards of health and safety protocols. Also, our head office is a Platinum LEED building which reflects our commitment to sustainability. Your company was recently listed among the top 5 construction companies in Saudi Arabia. What key strategies have driven IHCC's growth and success under your leadership? Our success lies in our specialisation and our ability to deliver complex, end-to-end solutions. We focus on high-impact sectors – healthcare, education, hospitality design and engineering to MEP, fitout and facilities management, we control the value chain. This ensures speed, quality, and innovation. Strategic partnerships with public entities like the PIF and leading private organisations have also driven consistent growth. As a third-generation member of the Batterjee family, with business roots extending over 100 years, how has this legacy influenced your approach to business and leadership? Legacy to me is a responsibility, not just a history. My grandfather pioneered private healthcare in Saudi Arabia; my father scaled it across the Arab world. That deeply influenced my belief in purpose-driven development. With IHCC, I have taken that legacy forward by building institutions that create long-term social value – from Hospitals and Universities to green communities and mixed-use environments, every project we take on must serve a larger mission and I always to keep all my companies continuously serve one purpose under the umbrella of the holding company -Sultan Batterjee Holding. Could you tell us about the Centre of Excellence Batterjee in Medical City Dubai and the Makkah Saudi German Hospital? How do these projects reflect your vision for healthcare facilities? Both are examples of next-generation healthcare destinations. The Centre of Excellence in Dubai is a regional leader in specialist care and medical training, equipped with the latest digital and research infrastructure. The Saudi German Hospital in Makkah is built to serve not only residents but also millions of pilgrims annually. These projects reflect our belief that healthcare must be accessible, technologically advanced, and culturally contextual. You've successfully collaborated with global hospitality giants like Marriott and Four Seasons. Are you exploring similar strategic partnerships with international wellness operators – whether in preventive health, longevity, or lifestyle medicine – to complement your mixed-use and wellness-focused developments? Absolutely. At Sultan Batterjee Holding, we see wellness and hospitality as a cornerstone of future-forward development. Just as we have collaborated with leading hospitality brands like Marriott and Four Seasons to elevate standards of living for generations to come. Our goal is to embed world-class wellness infrastructure into our mixed-use and healthcare-focused developments, aligning with both Vision 2030 and the growing demand for holistic, health-enhancing environments. These partnerships are not just about adding amenities – they're about shaping healthier, more resilient communities. We adopt biophilic designs and green spaces across all our developments, most of which are LEED certified, to enhance the well-being of all communities and geographical areas. The recent Green Mosques Initiative aims to rationalise energy use in 100 mosques across the Kingdom. What inspired this project, and what sustainable solutions are you implementing? This initiative came from our belief that sustainability should be integrated into every part of our society – including spiritual spaces, which is part of our social responsibility towards the community. Through Greener by IHCC, we are applying solar retrofits, smart lighting, and water efficiency systems to mosques, starting with pilot projects in Jeddah and Riyadh. It's about leading by example and contributing to Saudi Arabia's Net Zero goals in a culturally meaningful way. As another example, we partnered with Tarsheed for an initiative, spearheaded by Greener by IHCC, a transformative energy efficiency programme aimed at enhancing sustainability across educational institutions in Saudi Arabia. With 3,300 schools retrofitted across the Kingdom, this outstanding achievement resulted in remarkable energy savings of 54,000,000 KWH per year, reducing 38,200 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. Through Greener by IHCC, you've championed sustainability in construction. How are your energy auditing, retrofitting, and LEED consultancy services changing the landscape of building practices in Saudi Arabia? Greener by IHCC is changing the game by making sustainability measurable, actionable, and profitable. Our team has audited over 1 million sqm of builtup area, saving up to 30% in energy costs through retrofitting. We have helped clients secure LEED and ESTIDAMA certifications and advised public As President and Founder of Lifestyle Developers, you've partnered with international brands like YOO and Philippe Starck. What makes these branded residences unique in the Saudi market? These residences introduce a new standard of living in the Kingdom. With YOO International Studios and Philippe Starck coming to the Kingdom for the first time, we have curated design-forward homes that merge luxury with lifestyle. Projects like THE VUE, featuring waterfront homes in Jeddah, offer not just high-end design and finishes, but a complete emotional experience through art, architecture, and amenities such as a cigar room, tea room, private cinema, kids' play areas, open green spaces, and infinity pools overlooking the stunning Ubhur. This is a growing niche in the Saudi market – demand is shifting towards experiential living, and we're leading that evolution. Your LinkedIn profile mentions you're 'a developer with a cause.' Could you elaborate on how this philosophy shapes your approach to real estate development? For me, everything I do has to be purpose-driven. I aspire to impact communities and raise the standards of living with every project we deliver. Every Lifestyle Developers project is about empowering communities and redefining quality of life. Profit is important, but purpose drives everything we do. We are also very focused on creating the next generation of leaders and creating the right talent and jobs in the market. Our recently launched Tamkeen programme aims to train Saudi youth across different fields of design, engineering, and construction. The recent signing with Autograph by Marriott marks the first Marriott Autograph in Jeddah. How do you see this enhancing Saudi Arabia's hospitality sector? We have brought the first Autograph by Marriott hotel in Jeddah through a Saudi-born concept called B-Hotel, which is curated for the modern Arabian traveller. The B Hotel concept, partnering with Autograph by Marriott, will bring a globally recognised boutique hospitality experience to Jeddah's North Obhur and will be available across key locations in the Kingdom and beyond. It's about delivering curated experiences for both tourists and residents. As Saudi Arabia positions itself as a luxury and lifestyle destination, properties like this will be pivotal in attracting international travellers and elevating the hospitality offerings in line with Vision 2030. You signed six PIF projects in 2024, including Four Seasons. How do these projects align with Saudi Vision 2030? These projects are a direct response to Vision 2030's mandate for infrastructure modernisation, healthcare access, and luxury tourism. Our portfolio includes global hotel brands and IHCC has a solid track record in delivering luxurious hotels in prime locations within the Kingdom and beyond in partnership with international operators such as Four Seasons, Edition, Miraval, InterContinental, and Marriott. We have also announced key wellness resorts in Taif and across the Kingdom to cater to the needs of the discerning local and international traveller. IHCC is enabling the Kingdom's transformation through execution excellence, local capacity building, and international best practices. Saudi Arabia is targeting 70 million annual tourists by 2030. How are your hospitality projects specifically structured to capitalise on this projected influx? Our hospitality portfolio is strategically positioned to meet the needs of this diverse tourism base. We are developing properties near premium sites, pilgrimage routes, Red Sea coastal zones, and urban entertainment hubs. Projects like B Hotel in partnership with the Autograph by Marriott, THE VUE, The Standard by Philippe Starck, and the upcoming wellness resorts in Taif in partnership with ASFAR (PIF) in the Kingdom combine cultural relevance with international standards – attracting both regional and global visitors seeking authentic, elevated experiences. Many Saudi companies are exploring international expansion. Are you considering taking IHCC beyond MENA into markets like Southeast Asia or Africa? Yes, we are actively exploring new frontiers. Our turnkey model is highly scalable and in demand in emerging markets. We are currently evaluating healthcare, education, and hospitality infrastructure opportunities in East Africa and Southeast Asia, particularly where governments are prioritising social development and PPP models. Our vision is to make IHCC a globally recognised Saudi export in specialised construction.
Gulf Business
21-05-2025
- Gulf Business
Be part of the first 250: Join the WHX Tech Founders Circle
Image credit: WHX Tech As part of its launch, WHX Tech has announced the creation of The Founders Circle, an exclusive intiative for the first 250 individuals to register for the inaguaral digital health event. Launching alongside WHX Tech 2025 , the Founders Circle offers early supporters unique benefits including early access to industry-leading insights, exclusive merchandise, special rates on future events, and recognition as one of WHX Tech's original founding members. The initiative underscores WHX Tech's commitment to building a community of early adopters and innovators shaping the future of digital health. WHX Tech – where innovation comes to life Taking place from 8–10 September 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, WHX Tech is developed in partnership with HIMSS (Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society) — the global authority in health information and technology. Together, WHX Tech and HIMSS are creating a landmark event designed to bring innovation to life by accelerating the adoption of digital health solutions across real-world care settings. WHX Tech is the latest expansion of WHX — the world's largest network of healthcare events — built on a legacy that began in 1975 with WHX Dubai (formerly Arab Health). This next-generation event unites technology leaders, healthcare professionals, investors, and policymakers to spark transformative change in healthcare systems worldwide. Built to bring innovation to life by accelerating the adoption of innovation in healthcare, WHX Tech unites technology leaders, healthcare professionals, investors, and policymakers to drive real-world change. Why join The Founders Circle? For founders shaping the next wave of healthcare, early access means more than just a head start: it's a strategic edge. As a Founders Circle member, you'll unlock: Early access to industry reports, intelligence and insights before they go public Founders-only WHX Tech merchandise Exclusive rates for future WHX Tech events Recognition as part of WHX Tech's founding community And many more benefits designed to enhance your experience during the inaugural event And most importantly, recognition as an early supporter of WHX Tech — where healthcare innovation moves from concept to implementation at scale. The Founders Circle initiative is limited to just 250 spots , and early bird registration is now live! Don't miss your chance to be part of a launch that's already capturing the attention of global tech and investor networks. What else is on offer at WHX Tech? Xcelerate Stage Startups, this is your moment. Pitch your solution live in front of healthcare investors, VCs, and procurement leaders. Finalists will compete for a $50,000 equity free prize fund – plus gain real-time feedback from some of the sector's sharpest minds. The Connections Programme This isn't your average networking session. The WHX Connections Programme matches sponsors with curated buyers and entities that can enhance the future of your business. The team will matchmake sponsors and buyers alike to ensure that you'll walk away with genuine leads and not just LinkedIn requests. Global insights on tailored stages From AI and diagnostics to digital patient journeys and health data interoperability, founders will gain actionable insights from WHX Tech's three major stages: World X: global case studies and bold predictions for the future of digital healthcare Future X: where CEOs, policymakers, and ecosystem architects set the tone for the next era Xcelerate: where bold startups redefine the future of health and tech through live pitches and visionary solutions. Confirmed speakers already include innovators, strategists, and public health leaders from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Europe, and the US. MENA's launchpad for healthtech growth Backed by government support, increased investment, growing demand, and a surge in regional collaboration, the Middle East is fast becoming a proving ground for global digital health solutions. The region is well positioned to scale what works, and fast. Whether you're preparing to launch, scale, adopt new technology or build partnerships, the WHX Tech Founders Circle gives you a front-row seat—and a voice in the future. WHX Tech is the global stage for digital health innovation, dedicated towards accelerating the adoption of next-generation technology to tackle real-world healthcare challenges. Join now Early bird tickets are live—and with them, your chance to join The Founders Circle. Once the 250 spots are filled, they're gone! Registration link:
