Voice of the Healthcare Industry Market Outlook 2021:

 

It’s safe to say that 2021-21 has not been business as usual for healthcare professionals.

Since the last Voice of the Healthcare Industry Market Outlook report in December 2019, this industry found itself at the center of the greatest challenge the world has seen to date this century.

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted every single member of the healthcare community, both personally and professionally – and at every level of the supply chain, from manufacture to bedside care.

The Voice of the Healthcare Industry Market Outlook 2021 survey was designed by Informa Markets to understand the impact that the pandemic has had on four key areas of the industry: manufacturers and agents, dealers and distributors; clinics and medical practices; private hospitals and public hospitals; government and health regulators; and charities, non-profits and NGOs.

A disrupted healthcare industry

Through GRS Research & Strategy Middle East we asked 1,600 respondents worldwide about the financial and operational impact of the events brought by the pandemic.

The survey also looked to assess how the industry has responded to the pandemic, and how key players have evolved their business strategy. We also asked participants to reflect on how the future will look, and what key trends they are now anticipating.

Key findings

A number of interesting shifts have taken place as a result of the pandemic and its impact on the industry, which will play a key role in overcoming the pandemic:

1. A more cautious outlook. While still relatively optimistic, the industry is predicting less of an increase in turnover than in 2019.
2. Value-based healthcare is the future. The industry recognizes that it needs to become more cost-effective and sustainable from the ground up, rather than chasing trendy buzzwords.
3. Attracting local patients. With the future of global travel still uncertain, the industry needs to target more local business.
4. Healthcare is moving online. Telemedicine has become a larger focus for a world where face-to-face contact remains a risk to health.
5. Technology is still catching up. Tech overall is having less of an impact than expected. Gaps in tech skills are closing, but not in line with their implementation.
6. Eyes are on the GCC. This region has extremely strong prospects.
7. Medical practitioners are feeling more valued. Doctors and nurses have been on the frontlines of the pandemic, and their work is recognized.