CEO Insights Magazine

Healthcare facilities mitigate health disparities through a concerted focus on coordinated care management for patients with diverse healthcare requirements. This is achieved by implementing essential quality improvement practices, notably integrating health information technology. Aster DM Healthcare, always active, consistently pursues opportunities to establish new benchmarks through progressive advancements. With numerous innovative and ambitious initiatives, Aster DM Healthcare has significantly propelled the healthcare revolution in the Middle East and India. Throughout his tenure in the hospital, Dr. Essam Saad AlGhamdi, the Chief Executive Officer of Aster DM Healthcare, has served as a beacon of hope and the most significant source of support to the organization.

During a candid interview, Dr. Essam shared valuable insights into how Aster Healthcare is making significant strides towards success and provided updates on the latest advancements in the field of medicine.

Can you provide a concise overview of your professional history and experiences? Additionally, what is the driving force behind your daily routines?

Since January 2010, I've embarked on a dynamic professional journey, currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Aster Sanad Hospital since February 2023. Prior to this, I held the position of Executive Medical Director at Al-Inma Medical Company from January 2021 to January 2023, overseeing the operations of Alhyat National Hospitals Group in various locations. My diverse roles include Executive Director of Hyate Medical Academy and Director of Marketing & Public Relations at Al Inma Medical Company. Previously, from 2017 to December 2019, I contributed significantly as the Director of the Hospitals Affairs Administration at Riyadh General Directorate of Health Affairs, balancing responsibilities as a Clinical Assistant Professor at King Saud University Medical College. Throughout my career, I have actively engaged in roles such as Head of the National Committee for Blood Transfusion, National Coordinator for Eye Health, and Director of the Wazen Program. My commitment to healthcare leadership is evident from my roles at King Saud University Medical City. This multifaceted journey showcases my dedication to medical education, blood transfusion, eye health, and effective hospital administration. My motivation revolves around aspiring to inspire my team and fostering innovation within the organization by instigating change and promoting growth.

Can you characterize Aster DM Healthcare as a company and outline its current standing in the market?

Emerging as a prominent figure in healthcare markets since 1987, Aster DM Healthcare, under the leadership of its Chairman and Founder Dr. Azad Moopen, has cultivated a robust presence in various countries, such as the Emirates, India, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, and Jordan. Positioned as a leading healthcare provider, the company, guided by the current Deputy Managing Director Alisha Moopen, delivers a diverse array of services, encompassing hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, optical, and diagnostic centers. This comprehensive approach caters to the healthcare needs of the population. The commitment to quality, innovation, and patient-centered care remains a driving force for the organization.

Share insights into your leadership approach. Describe the principles or methods that guide your role as a leader.

Implementing a global leadership approach focused on inspiring and motivating employees for exceptional outcomes and driving organizational change. Key elements include emphasizing the completion of tasks, promoting the organization's vision, future-oriented commitment, and effective communication to inspire and engage employees. Encouraging creativity and innovation, fostering an environment for open expression of thoughts, leading by example, and upholding high standards of integrity and ethical behaviour are integral aspects of my leadership philosophy. Additionally, empowering the team by delegating authority and decision-making responsibilities, trusting them to take ownership, and providing autonomy and resources for success are also some add-ons to my leadership approach.

How do you stay current with the latest industry trends to guide your organization towards future success?

To perpetually foster customer development, I actively seek new information and stay updated on industry trends. This involves investing time in reading industry publications, attending conferences, and participating in regional policy discussions, such as my membership in the Hematology Diseases Committee and the Mother National Safety Program. Engaging in professional networks and Industry Associations through networking activities allows for the exchange of ideas and staying informed about emerging trends and best practices. I also draw insights and guidance from an Advisory Board and mentors, particularly the 2, who provides valuable expertise. Acknowledging the significance of data-driven decision-making, I prioritize internal communication channels to cultivate a culture where employees freely share insights and observations about industry trends. This comprehensive approach enables me, as a CEO, to tap into collective intelligence and remain well-informed about industry developments.

What is the ultimate goal or destination you are aiming to achieve in the future?

In the future, our focus will revolve around patient-centric excellence, emphasizing the enhancement of patient care and overall experience. Through the incorporation of innovation and technology, particularly cutting-edge solutions, we aim to optimize operations and enhance delivery efficiency. Additionally, fostering a collaborative healthcare ecosystem involves partnerships with other healthcare providers, community organizations, and stakeholders, creating an empowered and engaged workforce in an inclusive environment. Population Health Management is prioritized, with a commitment to ethical leadership and compliance, aiming to establish a standard for quality care. Our goal is to uphold the hospital's reputation, instil trust with stakeholders, and demonstrate unwavering commitment to patient safety and quality.

Dr. Essam Saad AlGhamdi, Chief Executive Officer, Aster DM Healthcare

Dr. Essam Saad AlGhamdi is a seasoned administrator with a robust set of organizational skills and a track record of successful administrative roles. Demonstrating formidable leadership abilities, he guides and inspires his team effectively. His strategic thinking and ability to make well-informed decisions contribute to steering the organization towards long-term success. Dr. Essam possesses excellent communication skills, enabling him to articulate the vision, goals, and expectations to employees, investors, and stakeholders. Additionally, he exhibits a profound understanding of financial management, encompassing budgeting, forecasting, and interpreting financial statements.