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Prof. Awad Al-Omari has spearheaded transformative changes in healthcare, blending technological innovation, patient safety initiatives, and academic leadership at Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group (HMG). His far-reaching contributions have enhanced healthcare delivery and advanced medical education across Saudi Arabia and the broader Gulf region, setting new standards for excellence.
1. Leadership in Patient Safety and National Recognition : Prof. Al-Omari has been pivotal in elevating patient safety across HMG, earning multiple National Patient Safety Awards for his groundbreaking efforts. His leadership in the Tele-Stroke Program, which integrates artificial intelligence for rapid diagnosis and treatment, has earned the prestigious Adaa Health Award for significantly improving critical stroke care metrics. The program achieved a 35% reduction in both door-to-CT scan and door-to-needle times, greatly enhancing patient outcomes. Additionally, his leadership in implementing the Rapid Response Team (RRT) has led to significant improvements in the stabilization and clinical outcomes of at-risk inpatients. This first-of-its-kind initiative in the private sector has successfully reduced ICU transfers and the occurrence of clinical deterioration.
2. Innovation in Telemedicine: Prof. Al-Omari’s leadership has revolutionized critical care through the development of the Tele-ICU program, now the largest of its kind globally. The Guinness World Record-holding Tele-ICU command center, established under his guidance, has provided life-saving care to tens of thousands of patients. This program has resulted in a 19% reduction in ICU mortality rates and a 23% reduction in readmissions, underscoring its profound impact on patient survival and recovery. He also spearheaded the Tele-Cardiology (NABD-24) program, which has transformed cardiac care at HMG by enabling the rapid diagnosis of heart attacks. The program has consistently achieved a door-to-balloon time of less than 90 minutes, outperforming international benchmarks and greatly improving patient outcomes.
3. Operational Excellence :Prof. Al-Omari’s leadership in the TAMKEEN program has enhanced patient experience and operational efficiency, significantly reducing operating room cancellations. His ER-45 initiative optimized emergency department operations, cutting patient stay by 32% and improving flow and satisfaction, reflecting his commitment to operational excellence and better clinical outcomes.
4. Academic Leadership and Recognition: In addition to his clinical and operational leadership, Prof. Al-Omari has made significant strides in advancing medical education. He founded the Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Academy, launching the largest private-sector scholarship program in Saudi Arabia. Under his leadership, the academy has partnered with prestigious institutions such as University College London and the University of Toronto, ensuring that healthcare professionals receive world-class training. Prof. Al-Omari also oversaw a 1300% increase in the number of accredited Residency and Fellowship Programs, contributing to workforce development and clinical improvement. His leadership in launching HMG’s first peer-reviewed scientific journal has positioned the organization as a leader in academic contributions to healthcare.
5. Thought Leadership and Media Contributions: Prof. Al-Omari has become a recognized thought leader in the field, significantly influencing the adoption of telemedicine and digital health solutions in the region. His expertise has been featured in numerous high-profile media outlets, including Al Arabiya and Rotana, where he has discussed the importance of telemedicine, the digital transformation of healthcare, and the role of artificial intelligence in improving patient care. In addition to his media appearances, he has written over 300 articles in national publications, such as Saudi Gazette, Al Watan, and Al Arabiya, addressing topics ranging from 5G technology in healthcare to the future of artificial intelligence in diagnostics. Prof. Al-Omari is also an accomplished author, having published a book that tackles pressing social issues and challenges that communities face, offering insightful solutions and thought-provoking perspectives that reflect his broader commitment to societal improvement.
Prof. Awad Al-Omari’s contributions to advancing healthcare solutions, technology integration, and improving patient outcomes make him a deserving nominee for Thought Leader of the Year.