UAE CT Scan Market Analysis

UAE CT Scan Market Executive Summary

UAE CT Scan Market was valued at $23.05 Mn in 2023 and is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 8.87% from 2023 to 2030, to $41.79 Mn by 2030.

A CT scan, or computed tomography scan, is a sophisticated imaging procedure that uses X-rays to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body. Unlike traditional X-rays, CT scans capture multiple views from various angles, which a computer then processes into a three-dimensional representation of internal structures such as organs, bones, and soft tissues. Before the scan, patients may prepare by wearing a gown and removing metal objects. Depending on the type of scan, they might need to ingest a contrast material to enhance the visibility of specific tissues. During the scan, patients lie on a table that moves through a donut-shaped scanner while X-ray images are taken. Afterward, a radiologist interprets the images to diagnose conditions like cancer, heart disease, bone fractures, internal bleeding, and injuries. While CT scans offer detailed diagnostic capabilities, they involve radiation exposure and can be costly, though advancements have minimized risks and enhanced safety. Other imaging options like X-rays, ultrasound, and MRI scans are considered based on specific medical needs and radiation concerns.

In the UAE, over 20% of university students report having at least one chronic condition, with obesity (12.5%), diabetes (4.2%), and asthma/allergies (3.2%) being the most common. Despite the prevalence of these conditions, data on neurological diseases remain sparse. High-resolution CT (HRCT) scans of the chest, showing a sensitivity of 68.8% and specificity of 70% for detecting COVID-19 pneumonia, have been significant in diagnosing and managing the disease in Abu Dhabi, particularly when RT-PCR results are negative or delayed. The WHO supports using chest imaging in COVID-19 diagnostics when RT-PCR tests are unavailable or inconclusive.

The market therefore is driven by significant factors like the rising prevalence of chronic diseases, growing population, and government investments in healthcare.  However, high costs, focus on cost-effectiveness, and potential for overutilization restrict the growth and potential of the market.

A prominent player in this field is GE Healthcare, which launched a new refurbishing unit in Bangladesh for A1-Sure Ultrasound Systems, aiming to enhance accessibility to affordable ultrasound technology in developing regions, and Siemens Healthineers partnered with Microsoft to utilize Azure cloud services for AI-powered medical imaging solutions, aimed at advancing healthcare delivery with secure and scalable cloud computing. Other contributors include Canon Medical Systems, and NeuroLogica Corp. among others.

Market Dynamics

Market Growth Drivers

Rising Prevalence of Chronic Diseases: The UAE, faces an increasing burden of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that non-communicable diseases account for over 70% of deaths in the UAE. CT scans play a crucial role in diagnosing, managing, and monitoring these conditions.

Growing Population: The UAE's population is steadily increasing, with a significant portion being expatriates. This population growth increases the demand for advanced medical services, including CT scans. Dubai Statistics Centre reports the UAE's population reached over 10 Mn in 2022.

Government Investments in Healthcare: The UAE government prioritizes healthcare development through infrastructure upgrades, technology adoption, and increased healthcare spending. This fosters an environment conducive to market growth for medical equipment like CT scanners.

Technological Advancements: Newer CT scan technologies offer significant advantages, including reduced radiation doses, which enhance patient safety, faster scan times that improve patient comfort and workflow efficiency, and improved image quality with enhanced resolution for more precise diagnoses.

Market Restraints

High Costs: CT scans can be expensive, with the cost varying depending on the type of scan, contrast material used, and facility fees. While specific data on average CT scan costs in the UAE is limited, industry reports suggest a range between $545 - $1,900 per scan.

Focus on Cost-Effectiveness: The UAE healthcare system emphasizes using cost-effective medical resources. This could lead to a preference for alternative imaging techniques like X-rays or ultrasounds when appropriate for the diagnosis, reducing CT scan utilization in certain cases.

Potential for Overutilization: Concerns exist about the potential overutilization of CT scans, particularly in private healthcare settings. Measures to ensure appropriate use and avoid unnecessary scans are crucial for maintaining cost-effectiveness.

Regulatory Landscape and Reimbursement Scenario

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) oversees the regulation of medical devices in the UAE, including CT scanners. This includes mandatory registration of all CT scanners sold or used in the UAE, where manufacturers must submit technical documentation and pass inspections to meet safety and performance standards. Facilities using CT scanners must adhere to established quality management systems (QMS) and comply with radiation safety regulations, which set dose limits and mandate operator training. MoHAP also conducts post-market surveillance to monitor the performance and safety of CT scanners.

In terms of reimbursement, the UAE healthcare system comprises both public and private providers. For Emirati citizens, the government’s health insurance program, Thiqa, covers medically necessary CT scans with reimbursement rates set by the Emirates Health Services Establishment (EHSA). Justification by a physician is essential for coverage under Thiqa. In the private sector, most health insurance plans cover CT scans when deemed medically necessary, with patient costs depending on the specific plan, including deductibles, co-pays, and coinsurance.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

Here are some of the major key players in the UAE CT Scan Market:

• GE HealthCare
• Koninklijke Philips N.V.
• Siemens Healthineers AG
• Canon Medical Systems
• NeuroLogica Corp.
• Shanghai United Imaging Healthcare Co., Ltd.
• Fujifilm Holdings Corporation
• Shenzhen Anke High-tech Co., Ltd.
• Koning Health
• Carestream Dental LLC.