Lisbon, Portugal: Dr. Muna A. Tahlak has officially commenced her two-year term as the 36th President of the International Hospital Federation (IHF). IHF is a renowned global non-profit organization representing hospitals and healthcare associations worldwide.

Dr. Tahlak, elected in November 2021, served two years as President Designate. She assumed the role of President on October 27, 2023, during the 46th World Hospital Congress Closing Ceremony in Lisbon, Portugal.

Dr. Tahlak, CEO of Latifa Women and Children Hospital and Chief Medical Officer of the Dubai Academic Health Corporation, is a distinguished healthcare professional. She’s a dynamic leader with a strong commitment to fostering global partnerships for knowledge exchange and healthcare excellence.

Dr. Tahlak has a longstanding history with the IHF, starting in 2016 on the Governing Council. She served as IHF Treasurer from 2019 to 2021. Her contributions include shaping the IHF’s Global Healthcare Leadership Competency Model and Women in Leadership Forum.

Dr. Tahlak’s Inaugural Address

In her inaugural address as President, Dr. Tahlak expressed her commitment to international collaboration and progress in healthcare. She said, “It is my honour to serve as President of the International Hospital Federation. Dubai Health Authority is a proud IHF member, and we have long recognized the value that it can bring. Being part of this international community enables us to address global challenges and opportunities for improved health outcomes for patients, the healthcare workforce, and the environment.”

Adding, “The challenges of tomorrow must be met with new solutions. Through the programs and the leadership forums of the IHF, we can exchange expertise on the common themes and trends worldwide. Such as workforce shortages, cybersecurity, AI, universal health coverage, and the need for gender equity in leadership. And through the Geneva Sustainability Centre, the IHF supports the transition to low-carbon, resilient, and sustainable healthcare delivery. The IHF is the global voice of hospitals worldwide, ensuring leaders and executives who serve their communities are providing healthcare services that are fit for the future.”
 
Dr. Tahlak takes over from Ms. Deborah J. Bowen, who served as IHF President since November 2021. Ms. Bowen is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

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Ms. Bowen welcomed Dr. Tahlak’s presidency and the role transition, highlighting their collective commitment to excellence in healthcare leadership. Dr. Tahlak’s presidency is historic as she’s the first woman from the Middle East to assume this role.