Description
1 day ago
HAMAD BIN MUNYIF
The COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges
COLLAPSE
The COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges to Saudi Arabia, impacting both
individual health and the community at large.
### Impact on Individuals and Community
– High Infection Rates: Saudi Arabia experienced a substantial number of COVID-19 cases,
putting a strain on healthcare resources and leading to significant morbidity and mortality
(Alyahyawi et al., 2023).
– Mental Health Impact: The pandemic and associated lockdowns exacerbated mental health
issues like anxiety and depression among individuals due to isolation, fear, and economic
uncertainty (Almalki et al., 2021).
– Disruption to Education & Economy: School closures and workplace disruptions resulted in
learning loss and economic hardship for many families (World Bank, 2020).
– Exacerbation of Health Disparities: Vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals
with pre-existing conditions, and migrant workers, faced disproportionate risks and challenges
accessing healthcare (Alkhenizan & Shawky, 2020).
### Healthcare System Response
While Saudi Arabia’s healthcare system demonstrated resilience, the pandemic exposed areas
for improvement:
#### Strengths
2
– Rapid Response: The government implemented swift and decisive measures like lockdowns,
travel restrictions, and testing/tracing programs to contain the virus spread (Saudi Ministry of
Health, 2020).
– Expansion of Healthcare Infrastructure: Significant investments were made to increase
hospital bed capacity, establish dedicated COVID-19 treatment centers, and bolster critical care
resources (Alyahyawi et al., 2023).
– Successful Vaccination Campaign: Saudi Arabia implemented a comprehensive vaccination
program, achieving high vaccination rates and contributing to a decline in infections and severe
cases (World Health Organization, 2022).
#### Challenges
– Strain on Healthcare Workers: The surge in cases overwhelmed healthcare workers, leading
to burnout and mental health concerns (Almalki et al., 2021).
– Digital Divide: Unequal access to technology and internet connectivity hindered telehealth
services and remote learning opportunities for some (International Telecommunication Union,
2021).
– Long-term Impact on Non-COVID Care: The focus on COVID-19 led to delays in elective
surgeries and routine healthcare services, potentially impacting long-term health outcomes
(Alyahyawi et al., 2023).
### Features of Effective Pandemic Response
A healthcare system that effectively deals with a pandemic demonstrates:
– Preparedness: Robust surveillance systems, surge capacity plans, and stockpiles of essential
medical supplies are crucial.
– Adaptability: The ability to rapidly adjust protocols, redeploy resources, and adopt new
technologies (telehealth, contact tracing apps) is critical.
– Community Engagement: Clear communication, public trust, and culturally sensitive
outreach are essential for effective prevention and control measures.
### Measuring Effectiveness
3
Evaluating a system’s effectiveness involves analyzing:
– Epidemiological Data: Tracking infection rates, hospitalization, and mortality provides
insights into the pandemic’s impact and the success of control measures.
– Healthcare System Performance: Assessing factors like hospital capacity, testing rates, and
vaccination coverage reveals the system’s ability to respond effectively.
– Community Impact: Evaluating factors like economic disruption, educational attainment, and
mental health outcomes provides a comprehensive picture of the pandemic’s overall impact.
### References
– Alyahyawi, H. E., Alharbi, R. A., Alatawi, S. K., Ahmed, W. A. M., & Almalki, S. S. R.
(2023). Assessment of the Prevalence and Incidence of COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia. *Journal
of Multidisciplinary Healthcare*, 16, 227–236.
– Almalki, A. H., Alzahrani, M. S., Alshehri, F. S., Alharbi, A., Alkhudaydi, S. F., Alshahrani,
R. S., Alzaidi, A. H., Algarni, M. A., Alsaab, H. O., Alatawi, Y., Althobaiti, Y. S., Bamaga, A.
K., & Alhifany, A. A. (2021). The Psychological Impact of COVID-19 on Healthcare Workers
in Saudi Arabia: A Year Later Into the Pandemic. *Frontiers in Psychiatry*, 12, 797545. doi:
10.3389/fpsyt.2021.797545
– International Telecommunication Union. (2021). Measuring Digital Development: Facts and
Figures 2021.
– Saudi Ministry of Health. (2020). Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Ministry of Health COVID-19
Response.
Retrieved
from
– World Bank. (2020). The Impact of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) on the Global Economy.
– World Health Organization. (2022). WHO Coronavirus (COVID-19) Dashboard. Retrieved
from
4
1 day ago
DAREEN ALSHEHRI
COVID-19 Challenges in Saudi Arabia: Effects on Individual and Community Health
COLLAPSE
COVID-19 Challenges in Saudi Arabia: Effects on Individual and Community Health
The COVID-19 pandemic presented Saudi Arabia with serious problems that had an impact on
people’s health as well as the community at large. The virus has an immediate negative impact on
people’s health, especially on those with pre-existing diseases including obesity, diabetes, and
hypertension—all of which are frequent comorbidities in Saudi Arabia. These circumstances made
people more vulnerable to severe COVID-19 outcomes, which raised the hospitalization and death
rates (Alyoubi et al., 2021).
The general health crisis was further exacerbated by a rise in mental health problems brought on by
protracted loneliness, unpredictability, and financial strain. Social conventions were disturbed at the
community level by the pandemic, including prohibitions on religious gatherings like the Hajj
pilgrimage, which is a major feature of Saudi society. In addition to their spiritual ramifications, these
disruptions had an impact on the economy, especially in the travel and hospitality industries. In
addition, the virus’s quick spread put a burden on public health resources, requiring prompt
government action to avoid overcrowding the hospital system (Alzahrani et al., 2021).
Features of an Effective Healthcare System During the COVID-19 Pandemic
A number of crucial elements of the Saudi healthcare system’s reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic
contributed to its overall success. The Ministry of Health (MOH) spearheaded a structured and
coordinated response that was crucial in ensuring effective resource allocation and uniform public
message. An important part of keeping an eye on the problem, putting containment plans into place,
testing extensively, and tracking down contacts was done by the Saudi Center for Disease Prevention
and Control (Weqaya). The quick development of diagnostic and treatment facilities was a noteworthy
aspect of the reaction. To enable extensive testing, Saudi Arabia swiftly established a large number of
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testing facilities, some of which included drive-through choices (Barwais, 2020). To handle the surge
of COVID-19 patients, the government also built field hospitals and repurposed already-existing
healthcare facilities, making sure the healthcare system held up under duress. Furthermore, it was
shown to be crucial to integrate digital health technology. For example, contact tracing, immunization
tracking, and movement monitoring were made possible with the Tawakkalna app (Alzahrani et al.,
2021). Through the proper management of quarantine procedures and enforcement of mobility
limitations made possible by this app, the government was able to better contain the virus’s spread.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Saudi Arabia’s Healthcare System
Numerous measures and results are used to evaluate how well a healthcare system manages
COVID-19. One important component was infection management; Saudi Arabia’s reaction revealed
lower infection rates than the world average. It was critical for the healthcare system to be able to act
quickly, as evidenced by the availability of more ventilators and increased ICU capacity. The
government’s vaccination campaign was effective, resulting in a high vaccination rate that
considerably reduced the pandemic’s later-phase effects (Yousif & Bawhab, 2023). The effectiveness
of Saudi Arabia’s reaction also depended on effective public health communication and the
implementation of health norms. Clear communication from the government and technology-driven
surveillance made sure that people followed health precautions. All things considered, Saudi Arabia’s
healthcare system proved to be flexible and ready for the pandemic.
Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic presented Saudi Arabia with a number of difficulties that had an impact on
public and individual health. Nonetheless, the nation’s healthcare system was able to react with
effectiveness because of its centralized coordination, quick building of new facilities, and incorporation
of digital health technologies. Public compliance, healthcare capacity, vaccination deployment, and
infection control are all taken into account when assessing how effective this reaction is. The success
of Saudi Arabia’s pandemic response can be better understood by utilizing theoretical frameworks like
the epidemiological triad and health system resilience.
6
References
Alyoubi, A., Halstead, E. J., Zambelli, Z., & Dimitriou, D. (2021). The Impact of the COVID-19
Pandemic on Students’ Mental Health and Sleep in Saudi Arabia. International Journal of
Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(17), 9344.
Alzahrani, H., Alshehri, F., Alsufiany, M., Allam, H. H., Almeheyawi, R., Eid, M. M., & Sadarangani, K.
P. (2021). Impact of the 2019 Coronavirus Disease Pandemic on Health-Related Quality of Life and
Psychological Status: The Role of Physical Activity. International Journal of Environmental Research
and Public Health, 18(8), 3992.
Barwais, F. A. (2020). Physical Activity at Home During the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Two Mostaffected Cities in Saudi Arabia. The Open Public Health Journal, 13(1), 470–476.
Yousif, S., & Bawhab, O. (2023). The healthcare system in Saudi Arabia: evolution, transformation
and the COVID-19 experience. In Research Handbook on Public Leadership (pp. 154–177). Edward
Elgar Publishing.
7
1 day ago
ALHAMZAH ALMAKRAMI
Implementing Healthcare Quality Improvements: Obstacles and Solutions
COLLAPSE
Implementing Healthcare Quality Improvements: Obstacles and Solutions
In healthcare, medication mistakes are a serious problem, particularly in underdeveloped nations. For
patient safety and high-quality care in Saudi Arabia, it is imperative to correct these problems. The
incidence, kinds, and effects of quality improvement initiatives are shown by research conducted at
King Khaled Hospital in Najran. The results support the aim of Saudi Vision 2030, which is to create a
healthcare system that is safer and more effective.
Quality Improvement and Background
8
The goal of a research conducted in Najran, Saudi Arabia, was drug mistakes in healthcare
environments. Over the course of three years (2018–2020), the program aimed to evaluate and
resolve the number and types of mistakes that occurred at King Khaled Hospital. In order to
determine the most common mistakes made when ordering, prescribing, and transcribing drugs, the
study examined electronic medical data. It also looked at how medical practitioners contribute to and
identify these mistakes (Alyami et al., 2022). Improvements may be made to prescription accuracy,
documentation during administration, and the implementation of more stringent checks, especially for
high-alert and look-alike sound-alike drugs, according to the retrospective research. Reducing
prescription mistakes, enhancing patient safety, and raising the standard of care overall were the
objectives.
Challenges in Adopting Changes and Key Issues
Numerous obstacles had to be overcome in order to prevent drug mistakes in healthcare facilities.
The implementation of new procedures was frequently hampered by the current culture, which places
more emphasis on personal accountability than on systemic reforms. Another difficulty was the
absence of comprehensive and integrated medication error reporting systems, which are necessary
for tracking errors in real time (Mutair et al., 2021). Financial and practical challenges were also
brought about by the requirement for healthcare personnel to get ongoing education and training.
Ensuring that all stakeholders—physicians, nurses, and pharmacists, among others—were included
in the change process and understood their responsibilities in mistake prevention were crucial
concerns (Aseeri et al., 2020). In order to simplify the procedure, the hospital also had to handle
potential technological obstacles, such as combining error reporting systems with already-existing
electronic health records.
Alignment with Saudi Vision 2030
In keeping with Saudi Vision 2030, King Khaled Hospital’s program is concentrated on lowering
pharmaceutical mistakes in order to enhance healthcare quality and safety. The program places a
strong emphasis on a robust healthcare system, technological utilization, and patient safety. The
Vision’s emphasis on adopting best practices and making decisions based on data is reflected in the
methodical approach to detecting and resolving drug mistakes (Alyami et al., 2022). Fostering a
collaborative and accountable healthcare environment is an objective of the Vision, and it is supported
9
when all healthcare professionals are involved in the process. In keeping with the goals of Saudi
Vision 2030, these advancements not only improve patient outcomes but also help create a safer and
more effective healthcare system.
Conclusion
The King Khaled Hospital research emphasizes how vital it is to address drug mistakes via
methodical attempts at quality improvement. Even though there were many obstacles to overcome,
including cultural opposition and technology integration, the emphasis on improving drug
management techniques showed a dedication to patient safety and high-quality healthcare. These
initiatives are essential for safeguarding patients from harm, but they are also critical for achieving
Saudi Vision 2030’s goals. This project helps to construct a more stable and dependable healthcare
system in Saudi Arabia by coordinating local healthcare improvements with national goals, therefore
establishing a model for other institutions to follow.
References
Alyami, M. H., Naser, A. Y., Alswar, H. S., Alyami, H. S., Alyami, A. H., & Al Sulayyim, H. J. (2022).
Medication errors in Najran, Saudi Arabia: Reporting, responsibility, and characteristics: A crosssectional study. Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal, 30(4), 329–336.
Aseeri, M., Banasser, G., Baduhduh, O., Baksh, S., & Ghalibi, N. (2020). Evaluation of Medication
Error Incident Reports at a Tertiary Care Hospital. Pharmacy, 8(2), 69.
Mutair, A. Al, Alhumaid, S., Shamsan, A., Zaidi, A. R. Z., Mohaini, M. Al, Al Mutairi, A., Rabaan, A. A.,
Awad, M., & Al-Omari, A. (2021). The Effective Strategies to Avoid Medication Errors and Improving
Reporting Systems. Medicines, 8(9), 46.
10
1 day ago
BAYAN AL QAHTANI
Implementing Healthcare Quality Improvements: Obstacles and Solutions
COLLAPSE
Implementing Healthcare Quality Improvements: Obstacles and Solutions
In healthcare, medication mistakes are a serious problem, particularly in underdeveloped
nations. For patient safety and high-quality care in Saudi Arabia, it is imperative to correct
these problems. The incidence, kinds, and effects of quality improvement initiatives are
shown by research conducted at King Khaled Hospital in Najran. The results support the aim
of Saudi Vision 2030, which is to create a healthcare system that is safer and more effective.
Quality Improvement and Background
The goal of a research conducted in Najran, Saudi Arabia, was drug mistakes in healthcare
environments. Over the course of three years (2018–2020), the program aimed to evaluate
and resolve the number and types of mistakes that occurred at King Khaled Hospital. In order
to determine the most common mistakes made when ordering, prescribing, and transcribing
drugs, the study examined electronic medical data. It also looked at how medical practitioners
contribute to and identify these mistakes (Alyami et al., 2022). Improvements may be made
to prescription accuracy, documentation during administration, and the implementation of
11
more stringent checks, especially for high-alert and look-alike sound-alike drugs, according
to the retrospective research. Reducing prescription mistakes, enhancing patient safety, and
raising the standard of care overall were the objectives.
Challenges in Adopting Changes and Key Issues
Numerous obstacles had to be overcome in order to prevent drug mistakes in healthcare
facilities. The implementation of new procedures was frequently hampered by the current
culture, which places more emphasis on personal accountability than on systemic reforms.
Another difficulty was the absence of comprehensive and integrated medication error
reporting systems, which are necessary for tracking errors in real time (Mutair et al., 2021).
Financial and practical challenges were also brought about by the requirement for healthcare
personnel to get ongoing education and training. Ensuring that all stakeholders—physicians,
nurses, and pharmacists, among others—were included in the change process and understood
their responsibilities in mistake prevention were crucial concerns (Aseeri et al., 2020). In
order to simplify the procedure, the hospital also had to handle potential technological
obstacles, such as combining error reporting systems with already-existing electronic health
records.
Alignment with Saudi Vision 2030
In keeping with Saudi Vision 2030, King Khaled Hospital’s program is concentrated on
lowering pharmaceutical mistakes in order to enhance healthcare quality and safety. The
program places a strong emphasis on a robust healthcare system, technological utilization,
and patient safety. The Vision’s emphasis on adopting best practices and making decisions
based on data is reflected in the methodical approach to detecting and resolving drug
mistakes (Alyami et al., 2022). Fostering a collaborative and accountable healthcare
environment is an objective of the Vision, and it is supported when all healthcare
12
professionals are involved in the process. In keeping with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030,
these advancements not only improve patient outcomes but also help create a safer and more
effective healthcare system.
Conclusion
The King Khaled Hospital research emphasizes how vital it is to address drug mistakes via
methodical attempts at quality improvement. Even though there were many obstacles to
overcome, including cultural opposition and technology integration, the emphasis on
improving drug management techniques showed a dedication to patient safety and highquality healthcare. These initiatives are essential for safeguarding patients from harm, but
they are also critical for achieving Saudi Vision 2030’s goals. This project helps to construct a
more stable and dependable healthcare system in Saudi Arabia by coordinating local
healthcare improvements with national goals, therefore establishing a model for other
institutions to follow.
References
Alyami, M. H., Naser, A. Y., Alswar, H. S., Alyami, H. S., Alyami, A. H., & Al
Sulayyim, H. J. (2022). Medication errors in Najran, Saudi Arabia: Reporting,
responsibility, and characteristics: A cross-sectional study. Saudi
Pharmaceutical Journal, 30(4), 329–336.
Aseeri, M., Banasser, G., Baduhduh, O., Baksh, S., & Ghalibi, N. (2020).
Evaluation of Medication Error Incident Reports at a Tertiary Care Hospital.
Pharmacy, 8(2), 69.
Mutair, A. Al, Alhumaid, S., Shamsan, A., Zaidi, A. R. Z., Mohaini, M. Al, Al
Mutairi, A., Rabaan, A. A., Awad, M., & Al-Omari, A. (2021). The Effective
13
Strategies to Avoid Medication Errors and Improving Reporting Systems.
Medicines, 8(9), 46.
1 day ago
MOHAMMED ALMANSOUR
The influence of ethical principles on healthcare
COLLAPSE
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is a transformative blueprint that aims to reshape
the country’s economy, society, and governance. At the heart of this vision are several ethical
principles that guide its implementation, particularly in the healthcare sector (Mani &
Goniewicz, 2024).
One of the core ethical tenets of Vision 2030 is the commitment to social justice and equity.
The vision emphasizes the importance of ensuring equitable access to high-quality healthcare
services for all citizens, regardless of their socioeconomic status or geographical location (Mani
14
& Goniewicz, 2024). This principle is evident in the government’s efforts to expand the reach
of primary healthcare services and improve the quality of care in underserved regions (Alasiri
& Mohammed, 2022).
Another guiding ethical principle is the focus on individual and community well-being. Vision
2030 recognizes the inherent value of human life and the importance of promoting physical,
mental, and social health among the population (Mani & Goniewicz, 2024). This is reflected
in the government’s emphasis on preventive healthcare, health awareness campaigns, and the
integration of advanced technologies to enhance the quality of healthcare services (Alasiri &
Mohammed, 2022).
One example of Vision 2030’s impact on the healthcare sector is the establishment of the
National Transformation Program (NTP), which aims to improve the efficiency and
effectiveness of the healthcare system (Saudi Vision 2030, 2016). The NTP has led to the
implementation of several initiatives, such as the expansion of electronic medical records, the
development of telemedicine services, and the optimization of healthcare workforce planning
(Alasiri & Mohammed, 2022). These initiatives align with the ethical principles of
accessibility, quality, and technological innovation that are central to Vision 2030.
Furthermore, the Saudi government has placed a strong emphasis on preventive healthcare and
has launched nationwide campaigns to promote healthy lifestyles and early disease detection.
For instance, the “Healthy Lifestyle” initiative focuses on raising awareness about the
prevention of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, which are
prevalent in the country (Alasiri & Mohammed, 2022). This aligns with the ethical principle
of prioritizing community well-being and disease prevention.
In conclusion, the ethical principles of social justice, equity, and community well-being are at
the core of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and are actively shaping the transformation of the
country’s healthcare sector. The examples discussed demonstrate how these principles are
being translated into tangible initiatives and programs, such as the National Transformation
Program, that aim to improve the accessibility, quality, and efficiency of healthcare services in
the Kingdom (Al Mutair et al., 2023).
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References:
Al Mutair, A., Saha, C., Alhuqbani, W., Alhuqbani, M. N., AlQahtani, M. N., Abogosh, A. K.,
Alsedrah, A. M., Alhindi, A. H., Alfehaid, R. H., & Al-Omari, A. (2023). Utilization of
Telemedicine during COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia: A Multicenter Study. Cureus, 15(7), e41541.
Alasiri, A. A., & Mohammed, V. (2022). Healthcare Transformation in Saudi Arabia: An
Overview Since the Launch of Vision 2030. Health services insights, 15, 11786329221121214.
Mani, Z. A., & Goniewicz, K. (2024). Transforming Healthcare in Saudi Arabia: A
Comprehensive Evaluation of Vision 2030’s Impact. Sustainability, 16(8), 3277.
Saudi
Vision
2030.
(2016).
National
Transformation
Program.
16
1 day ago
OSAMA HAKAMI
The 2030 Healthcare Vision of Saudi Arabia is shaped by ethical principles
COLLAPSE
The 2030 Healthcare Vision of Saudi Arabia is shaped by ethical principles
Vision 2030 is Saudi Arabia’s comprehensive plan to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on oil,
with significant focus on improving healthcare. The plan is grounded in ethical principles that ensure
the progress made benefits all citizens and upholds moral values in the process.
Core Ethical Principles in Vision 2030
One of the key ethical principles behind Vision 2030 is beneficence, which is about taking actions that
promote the well-being of people and the community as a whole. In healthcare, this principle is seen
in efforts to improve the quality of care, make medical services more accessible, and enhance overall
health across the country (Bagedo et al., 2023). Vision 2030 focuses on upgrading healthcare
facilities, adopting advanced medical technologies, and expanding specialized services to provide
better care to all citizens.
Fairness and Equal Access to Healthcare
Another important ethical principle is justice, which is concerned with fairness and equality in access
to healthcare. Vision 2030 aims to ensure that everyone, regardless of their financial status or
location, has equal access to medical services. This is evident in the initiatives to build healthcare
facilities in rural and underserved areas, helping to bridge the gap between urban and rural healthcare
(Albejaidi & Nair, 2019). By focusing on justice, Vision 2030 seeks to create a more equitable
healthcare system that serves the needs of all citizens.
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Empowering Patients through Autonomy
The principle of autonomy, which respects individuals’ rights to make informed decisions about their
healthcare, is also a key component of Vision 2030. The plan supports the move towards patientcentered care, where people are encouraged to take an active role in managing their health. This is
being achieved by increasing health education, emphasizing preventive care, and introducing digital
health tools that give patients access to their medical information and enable them to make informed
choices about their treatment (Bagedo et al., 2023).
Telemedicine: A Vision 2030 Success Story
A clear example of Vision 2030’s impact on healthcare is the expansion of telemedicine through the
National Transformation Program (NTP). Telemedicine has greatly improved access to healthcare,
especially in rural areas where specialized medical services were once scarce (Al-Mwzaiji &
Muhammad, 2023). By allowing remote consultations, telemedicine ensures that patients can receive
timely medical advice without needing to travel long distances, thus supporting both beneficence and
justice.
Ensuring Patient Safety with Non-Maleficence
Lastly, the ethical principle of non-maleficence, which means avoiding harm, is reflected in Vision
2030’s emphasis on digital health solutions. Tools like electronic health records (EHRs) and health
information systems help improve the accuracy of diagnoses and treatments, reducing the chances of
medical errors (Chowdhury et al., 2021). By prioritizing patient safety, these initiatives align with the
ethical standards necessary for a trustworthy healthcare system.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the ethical principles of beneficence, justice, autonomy, and non-maleficence are
integral to the healthcare strategies under Vision 2030. Through initiatives like telemedicine and
digital health solutions, Vision 2030 is not only advancing Saudi Arabia’s healthcare system
technologically but also ensuring that it remains fair, ethical, and accessible to all citizens.
References
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Albejaidi, F., & Nair, K. S. (2019). Building the health workforce: Saudi Arabia’s challenges in
achieving Vision 2030. The International Journal of Health Planning and Management, 34(4).
Al-Mwzaiji, K. N. A., & Muhammad, A. A. S. (2023). EFL Learning and Vision 2030 in Saudi Arabia: A
Critical Perspective. World Journal of English Language, 13(2), 435.
Bagedo, S. A., Guzaiz, T. N., & Mujalid, A. F. (2023). The impact of Saudi Arabian Vision 2030 on the
evolution and growth of the nursing profession. Nursing Communications, 7(0), e2023016.
Chowdhury, S., Mok, D., & Leenen, L. (2021). Transformation of health care and the new model of
care in Saudi Arabia: Kingdom’s Vision 2030. Journal of Medicine and Life, 14(3), 347–354.
1 day ago
ALI ASSIRI
Improving Healthcare system in Saudi Arabia from Healthcare aspect using
qualitative methods
COLLAPSE
This article explores the attitudes of healthcare providers toward improving primary healthcare
(PHC) services in Ha’il city, Saudi Arabia, through a qualitative study. The authors conducted
semi-structured interviews with seven health service administrators, aiming to identify key
areas for improvement in the healthcare system.
**Key Findings**:
1. **Workforce Training**: The study highlights the importance of continuous training for
healthcare workers. Training not only updates their skills but also motivates them, leading to
better service delivery.
2. **Sharing Responsibility**: Engaging the workforce in decision-making processes by
sharing responsibilities increases their motivation and commitment, leading to improved
healthcare outcomes.
3. **Input Technology**: The integration of new technologies in healthcare settings was seen
as crucial for modernizing services and encouraging both staff and patients to embrace
improvements.
4. **Improving Visitor Attitudes**: Educating healthcare visitors about their rights and
responsibilities can positively impact their behavior, thereby enhancing the overall healthcare
experience.
**Conclusion**:
The study concludes that improving PHC in Saudi Arabia requires a multi-faceted approach,
including professional workforce training, technological advancements, and enhancing the
attitudes of healthcare visitors. The findings underscore the demand for systemic
improvements that align with broader healthcare strategies in the Kingdom, particularly in light
of the goals set out by Saudi Vision 2030. This aligns with ongoing efforts to modernize and
enhance the quality and accessibility of healthcare services across the country.
IMG_7601.jpeg (360.353 KB)
1 day ago
ENSHERAH AL MUDAWI
Enhancing Clinical Care in Saudi Arabia: The Impact of National Clinical Audits on
Healthcare Quality within MOH Hospitals Under Vision 2030
COLLAPSE
In Saudi Arabia, a notable healthcare quality improvement initiative occurred
within Ministry of Health (MoH) hospitals through the implementation of a national
clinical audit program. This program focused on four critical clinical areas: acute
myocardial infarction, major trauma, sepsis, and stroke. The initiative was driven by
the Clinical Excellence General Directorate in response to Vision 2030’s objectives,
aiming to reduce variability in clinical practices and align them with international best
practices through evidence-based clinical standards.
The process changes involved multidisciplinary teams conducting audits in selected
MOH hospitals. These teams collected data, participated in workshops to understand
clinical care standards, and implemented improvements based on audit findings.
Subsequent data collection rounds showed significant improvements in adherence to
clinical care standards, demonstrating the effectiveness of the audits.
However, adopting these changes posed several challenges. Key issues included the
necessity of sustained engagement from healthcare professionals, continuous training,
and overcoming initial resistance to changes in established practices. The success of
the initiative was heavily dependent on strong leadership, commitment from all staff
levels, and the effective use of audit results to drive change.
This quality improvement effort aligns well with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to
enhance the quality and efficiency of healthcare services. By introducing structured,
evidence-based improvements and accountability in clinical practices, this initiative
contributes to the broader goals of improving public health outcomes and aligning
Saudi healthcare services with global standards.
Reference:
•
Alkhrisi, A., Alanazi, K., Alzahrani, A., Almutairi, R.,
Alahmari, M., & Alkanhal, A. (2024). Effects of a team
quality improvement method in a national clinical audit
programme of four clinical specialties in Ministry of Health
hospitals in Saudi Arabia. International Journal for Quality
in Health Care.
4 minutes ago
MUHANNAD ZARBAH
the most important factors to consider in creating a safety culture for Saudi Arabian
healthcare
COLLAPSE
When creating a safety culture in Saudi Arabian healthcare organizations,
several key factors must be considered. Saudi Vision 2030 emphasizes healthcare
transformation with a focus on quality, patient safety, and continuous improvement.
Critical aspects include leadership commitment, employee engagement, patientcentered care, robust reporting systems, and a non-punitive environment that
encourages error reporting and learning. These components foster a proactive
approach to risk management and align with the overarching goals of Vision 2030 to
.enhance healthcare services and ensure patient safety
•
Summary of Safety Culture in Abha Maternity and
Children’s Hospital
At Abha Maternity and Children’s Hospital, the safety culture has a mixed landscape.
On the one hand, the organization has protocols and standards aimed at patient safety,
following national guidelines set by entities such as the Saudi Central Board for
Accreditation of Healthcare Institutions (CBAHI). However, there is room for
improvement in fostering a more open culture where employees feel empowered to
report safety concerns without fear of retribution. This reflects a common challenge in
Saudi healthcare organizations, where hierarchical systems can sometimes hinder
.transparent communication
•
Influence of Organizational Culture on Quality and Safety
Organizational culture plays a crucial role in shaping safety and quality initiatives. A
culture that emphasizes continuous learning, teamwork, and accountability is more
likely to succeed in implementing effective safety protocols. According to **Schein’s
Organizational Culture Theory**, shared values and assumptions influence how
employees behave and make decisions (Schein, 2010). In healthcare, these cultural
attributes directly affect how quality improvement (QI) initiatives are adopted and
sustained. For example, in a culture that prioritizes safety and learning, staff are more
likely to report errors, thereby allowing the organization to address root causes and
.improve processes
A study titled **”Adaptation and Validation of the U.S. Hospital Survey on Patient
Safety Culture 2.0 (SOPS®)”** explores the adaptation of safety culture assessments
to the Saudi context. It highlights the importance of creating a supportive environment
where errors can be reported without fear of punishment, aligning with the principles
of safety culture outlined by Vision 2030 (Alharbi, 2024) [oai_citation:1,Adaptation
and validation of the U.S. hospital survey on patient safety culture 2.0™(SOPS®) :
the Saudi version](
•
Role of Communication in Quality Improvement and
Patient Safety
Effective communication is fundamental to patient safety and quality improvement
(QI) efforts. According to a recent study by **Alharbi (2024)**, healthcare
professionals in Saudi Arabia believe that communication breakdowns and a lack of
leadership support are key barriers to creating a strong safety culture. The study found
that improving communication systems—both electronic (such as electronic health
records) and interpersonal—is essential for reducing errors and improving patient
outcomes. In healthcare organizations, clear and timely communication among team
members ensures that everyone is aware of patient care plans, potential risks, and any
.deviations from expected outcomes
In the context of Vision 2030, improving communication and fostering leadership
support will be vital in achieving the national objectives. At Abha Maternity and
Children’s Hospital, while the hospital has made strides in improving formal
communication channels, informal, hierarchical barriers sometimes undermine the
effectiveness of these initiatives. A focus on interdisciplinary teamwork and better use
.of technology can bridge these gaps
• Conclusion
Building a safety culture in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030 requires
an comprehensive efforts involving leadership, effective communication, and
emphasis on learning from mistakes. Organizational culture, particularly in
hierarchical settings like Saudi healthcare institutions, significantly impacts the
success of quality and safety initiatives. Leaders must focus on fostering a nonpunitive environment and ensuring open, transparent communication to drive
.meaningful improvements in patient safety
References **
Alharbi, A. A. (2024). *Adaptation and validation of the U.S. Hospital Survey on
Patient Safety Culture 2.0 (SOPS®): The Saudi version*. Retrieved from Saudi
Digital Library:
https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14154/7(][https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14154/72640
)2640
Schein, E. H. (2010). *Organizational culture and leadership* (4th ed.). San
.Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass
1 day ago
BAYAN AL QAHTANI
The healthcare initiatives in Saudi Vision 2030.
COLLAPSE
The factors to consider in creating a safety culture for Saudi Arabia
Policymakers in the Saudi healthcare system should pay attention to the factors
that may contribute to a positive patient safety culture, especially establishing a
blame-free culture, improving communications and leadership capacity, learning from
errors and involving patient perspectives in safety initiatives. Further research is
required to understand in depth the barriers and facilitators to the implementation of a
positive patient safety culture in Saudi Arabia.(Albalawi et al., 2020)
Patient safety culture has become a crucial element within healthcare organizations
in order to prevent patient harm and maintain safe, high-quality healthcare. Safety
culture refers to ‘the product of individual and group values, attitudes, perceptions,
competencies and patterns of behaviour that determine the commitment to, and the
style and proficiency of, an organisation’s health and safety management’. There is
growing evidence regarding the effect of strong safety culture on patient safety,
patient-related health outcomes and quality of healthcare. Despite increasing efforts to
implement patient safety initiatives worldwide, patient harm represents the 14th
leading cause of mortality and morbidity across the world. The WHO has highlighted
that 42.7 million adverse care events are recorded annually worldwide; patient safety is
therefore perceived as a serious healthcare issue. Medical errors or harmful incidents
involving patients are reported as serious threats to patient safety, because they may affect
patients’ physical, psychological, emotional and social well-being. Positive and strong patient
safety cultures have been found to significantly reduce the number of adverse events
reported in a healthcare organization. Improving patient safety culture positively influences
and increases the commitment to reporting incidents among healthcare professionals. Thus,
it is believed that higher levels of patient safety culture are associated with higher safety
performance in healthcare organizations.(Albalawi et al., 2020)
Medication Safety Culture in My Previous Workplace
Medication safety refers not only to the safe prescribing, dispensing and
administration of medicines but also to medication errors, defined as ‘preventable
events that lead to actual harm’. Medication safety is a complex concept, with errors
often having multifactorial origins across the different stages of the prescribing,
dispensing and administration.(Machen et al., 2019)
The Role of Effective Communication in Enhancing Quality Improvement
and Patient Safety
Excellent communication is critical for all health professionals. It affects the
quality of healthcare output, impacts the patient’s health and satisfaction, and benefits
both patients and providers. Communication is a critical clinical competence because
it establishes trust between providers and patients, creating a therapeutic relationship.
Physician-patient communication plays several functions, including making decisions,
exchanging information, improving the physician-patient relationship, managing the
patient’s doubts, addressing emotions, and enhancing self-management. Features of
effective or quality communication include involving patients in decisions, allowing
patients to speak without interruptions, encouraging a patient to ask questions and
answering the questions, using a language that the patient understands, paying
attention to the patient and discussing the next steps. This communication also
includes listening, developing a good interpersonal relationship, and making patientcentred management plans.(Sharkiya, 2023)
References:
Albalawi, A., Kidd, L., & Cowey, E. (2020). Factors contributing to the patient safety
culture in Saudi Arabia: A systematic review. BMJ Open, 10(10), e037875.
Machen, S., Jani, Y., Turner, S., Marshall, M., & Fulop, N. J. (2019). The role of
organizational and professional cultures in medication safety: A scoping review of the
literature. International Journal for Quality in Health Care, 31(10), G146–G157.
Sharkiya, S. H. (2023). Quality communication can improve patient-centred health
outcomes among older patients: A rapid review. BMC Health Services
Research, 23(1), 886.
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