Espicom's in-depth medical device market reports are ideal for executives wanting to understand the key drivers in medical markets and have access to a wealth of statistical data. Each report opens with an outlook section that provides analysis of the market, 5-year market forecasts, national data projections, market outlook and key developments such as regulation, health facilities and government policy. The report also provides extensive background information, population trends, health status, health expenditure, organisation & administration, hospital services, medical personnel, healthcare development, market access information, trade data and essential industry contacts. Included with the report are 3 free quarterly updated outlook reports, enabling you to keep up to date with market developments for a year. Oman is a small, oil-dependent state in the Middle East, bordering the Indian Ocean. Oman has strong diplomatic relationships with Arab and other leading countries.

The country has a growing healthcare sector that is constantly being improved and modernised, which is also benefiting from the many construction projects announced in recent years. Over the last 30 years, Oman has invested heavily in the health sector and succeeded in creating a modern hospital system. Despite this, it still lacks rural infrastructure and a local base of trained medical personnel, problems which current health policies are seeking to resolve.

Oman has an unusual demographic profile, with many overseas workers. However, expatriate medical personnel tend to be highly-skilled, bringing Western techniques to the Omani healthcare system, therefore enhancing its development.

The majority of the healthcare sector is run by the government although the private sector is very active in the provision of clinic services. Total health expenditure is estimated at US$1.1 billion, the majority of it is provided by the public sector.

The market is of course limited by the small size of the population. There is also very little domestic production in Oman, leading to a reliance on foreign imports of medical equipment and supplies. The opportunity exists, therefore, for both domestic and overseas investment in domestic production, which would both increase export capacity and create a more stable market.

The private sector also presents an opportunity in Oman. It is relatively small but growing; with further investment, the private sector could develop rapidly and become a major player in the Omani market. However, current regional unrest may act as a deterrent to foreign investors.