International Data Protection Day (January 2025)

We are Guardians of Patient Privacy

28 January: International Data Protection Day (January 2025)

As we celebrate International Data Protection Day on January 28, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the significant strides made in the field of privacy and data protection in the Middle East. Over the past few years, the region has witnessed a marked transformation in how personal and health data are managed, with an increasing emphasis on patient privacy, data security and compliance with international standards.

One of the key milestones has been the introduction of data protection laws and regulations across several Middle Eastern countries. Nations such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar have enacted comprehensive data protection laws that align with global standards such as the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). For example, the UAE’s Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 on Personal Data Protection has set the bar for safeguarding personal data, ensuring that patients' privacy rights are protected.

In healthcare, this progress is particularly significant given the sensitive nature of health-related data. The region's healthcare sector has increasingly embraced digital health technologies, including electronic health records (EHR), telemedicine and health information exchange platforms. This has necessitated a greater focus on privacy and security, with healthcare organisations adopting stronger data protection measures. Hospitals and healthcare providers are investing in advanced encryption methods, secure data storage solutions and access control systems to safeguard patient information from unauthorised access, breaches or misuse. Moreover, there has been an increased awareness and capacity-building effort within the healthcare industry in the Middle East.

Keeping track with these developments, Mediclinic Group has implemented a comprehensive privacy and data protection framework since 2018. Some milestones at MCME include:

• 2018: Launch of a data privacy project (as part of a Group-wide project)
• 2020: Appointment of a Data Protection Officer for MCME
• 2020-2022: Implementation of data registers in all hospitals and the Corporate Office to gain an overview of data sets and data flows and the risks related to data processing practices
• 2022: Rollout of an e-learning regarding privacy and data protection to all employees
• 2023: Publication of the MCME Privacy and Data Protection Policy
• 2024: Implementation of the Data Breach Incident Management Policy and Procedure, aligned with the Cyber Incident Response Plan and the Adverse Event Policy
• 2024-2025: Employee awareness campaign “We are Guardians of Patient Privacy”

While significant progress has been made, challenges remain. The growing use of artificial intelligence, cloud computing and other emerging technologies in healthcare requires ongoing vigilance to ensure that new privacy risks are managed appropriately. Additionally, there is a continued need for more robust enforcement mechanisms and ongoing updates to data protection laws to keep pace with technological advancements.

The Middle East as a region and MCME as a healthcare provider and data controller have made impressive strides in advancing privacy and data protection. Mediclinic’s commitment to protecting personal and health data through regulatory reforms, technological advancements, and a focus on compliance is setting a strong foundation for the future of patient care and data security. As we celebrate International Data Protection Day, it is important to acknowledge these achievements while continuing to prioritise privacy and security in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape.

Remember, our dedication to patient well-being extends beyond medical care; it includes safeguarding their privacy. Let us all contribute to fostering an environment where patients can trust that their information is handled with the utmost care and respect.

Thank you for your commitment to upholding the values that make Mediclinic a trusted healthcare provider.