Every day, I am reminded of the profound privilege it is to serve in this capacity — a privilege I embrace with humility and gratitude. When you started at Cleveland Clinic in 2007 as Director of the Intensive Care Unit did you have any goals for the department which came to fruition and how have you risen through the ranks to now becoming CEO of the Abu Dhabi Clinic? When I arrived at Cleveland Clinic in 2007 to oversee the Intensive Care Unit, it was as the director of a small medical unit. I envisioned establishing a worldclass service line dedicated to critical care, bringing together a multidisciplinary team of doctors, nurses, and specialists. Through meticulous standardization and advancements in critical care practices, we are the foundations for what today is one of the premier ICUs globally. This journey involved pioneering techniques, separating critical care into distinct highly specialized practices, and fostering a culture of excellence that continues to thrive today. Beyond the walls of Cleveland Clinic, my aspiration extends to revolutionizing ICU care on a broader scale. I envision our institution becoming a beacon of innovation, leveraging telemedicine and remote care integrated with cutting-edge data and digital technologies. Our goal is to extend the reach of our expertise far beyond our physical location, ensuring that anyone in need can access world-class ICU care wherever they may be. Additionally, establishing a critical care transport program would support our commitment to extend assistance to patients wherever they may be, therefore bridging gaps in care delivery and ensuring timely interventions for those in critical need. Prior to my tenure at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, I served as the Vice President of Regional Hospital Medical Operations at Cleveland Clinic in the U.S., where I pioneered the development of the ICU telemedicine program (eHospital). This experience provided invaluable insights and laid the groundwork for my continued dedication to advancing critical care practices. Throughout my journey, my focus has always been on putting patients first and driving excellence in medical care. This dedication has propelled me through the ranks, from spearheading critical projects within the hospital to assuming the role of CEO. Yet, I remain deeply committed to my roots as a consultant staff physician in the Critical Care Institute, ensuring that the highest standards of care are upheld at every step. In essence, my journey from leading the ICU to becoming CEO reflects a humble commitment to excellence, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of better patient outcomes. With a wealth of knowledge and 35 years of experience, how have you seen the healthcare industry change, in particular, advancement within Cleveland Clinic? The realm of healthcare is ever evolving, and institutions must stay abreast of trends to adequately address the needs of the communities they serve. I have been privileged to witness profound transformations in the healthcare industry since the beginning of my career, The history of the Cleveland Clinic Foundation shows how a vision to lead the way in modern medicine, born from modest origins, has endured for over a century and continues to resonate powerfully across borders and this has been very inspiring. Now Cleveland Clinic is a globally renowned institution dedicated not only to the delivery of medical care but also to research, innovation, and education of healthcare professionals. Cleveland Clinic was first established as a multi-specialty group practice. From a small outpatient clinic, it has grown to become the world’s first integrated international health system. With more than 65,000 caregivers worldwide, and almost 6 million patient visits per year, at more than 200 locations. Cleveland Clinic has introduced many medical firsts, opened multiple facilities around the world and is proud CEO Today Middle East Awards 2024 - UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - - 17 -
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