Egypt to launch robotic surgery program in public hospitals

EGYPT—Egypt is preparing to introduce robotic surgery technology into its public healthcare system, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to modernise medical services.

Health Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar announced the initiative during a meeting with representatives from Tecnoviv and Medbot, two companies specialising in advanced medical technologies.

The discussions focused on integrating robotic surgical systems into public hospitals as part of the government’s broader strategy to improve healthcare delivery nationwide.

Pilot programme at Nasser Institute

The programme will start with a pilot phase at the Nasser Institute Hospital in Cairo, serving as the testing ground for Egypt’s first robotic surgical system in the public sector.

Once the initial phase proves successful, the ministry plans to expand the technology to other major hospitals nationwide.

Minister Abdel Ghaffar highlighted the transformative potential of robotic surgery, emphasising its precision and technical sophistication.

He explained that these systems can significantly improve clinical outcomes by reducing surgical errors and strengthening patient safety measures.

The minister reaffirmed his commitment to adopting cutting-edge medical technologies that elevate the standard of care available to Egyptian citizens.

Applications across multiple specialties

Health Ministry spokesperson Hossam Abdel Ghaffar provided additional details about the technology’s applications during the meeting.

He noted that robotic-assisted procedures show particular promise in complex surgical fields, including urology, obstetrics and gynaecology, and general surgery.

The spokesperson explained that these advanced systems help surgeons perform delicate procedures with enhanced accuracy.

Patients who undergo robotic-assisted operations often experience fewer complications, shorter recovery periods, and better overall outcomes compared to traditional surgical methods.

Regulatory framework and training

To ensure proper implementation, Minister Abdel Ghaffar has ordered the establishment of a national committee on robotic surgery.

This body will comprise leading medical experts from across Egypt who will develop regulatory frameworks and oversee the phased rollout of the technology.

The committee will be responsible for setting standards that align with international best practices whilst addressing the specific needs of Egypt’s healthcare system.

Specialised training centre

Recognising that successful implementation requires skilled operators, the ministry is planning to establish a dedicated training facility at the Princess Fatima Academy for Medical Professional Education.

This specialised centre will equip doctors, nurses, and surgical teams with the expertise needed to operate robotic systems effectively.

The training programme will follow international scientific and professional standards, ensuring that Egyptian medical professionals receive world-class preparation.

This investment in human capital represents a crucial component of the ministry’s strategy to successfully integrate robotic surgery into public hospitals nationwide.