Transforming healthcare: Saudi Arabia's vision 2030 healthcare model

ABSTRACT

Vision 2030 represents Saudi Arabia’s strategic socio-economic plan aimed at promoting economic diversification and enhancing living standards. Launched in April 2016, this vision describes an innovative healthcare plan to improve services and outcomes. The merits and drawbacks of public hospitals’ ‘Model of Care’ are examined in this study. This assessment summarises Vision 2030s healthcare revolution. This study explores the innovative ‘Model of Care’ and its potential to change Saudi healthcare. Prior to Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia's healthcare system grappled with escalating costs and a heavy reliance on foreign labour, signalling a need for transformative change. Vision 2030s patient-centric framework emphasises individualised treatment, and the National Guidelines Center's role in standardising healthcare processes is examined in this review. In addition, we also explored the new initiative of Electronic Health Records and telemedicine services. Additionally, we addressed the challenges associated with it, such as the imperative to address the digital divide and ensure data security. Vision 2030 in Saudi Arabia brought about a significant transformation in the provision of healthcare. Despite the presence of challenges, such as inadequate infrastructure, insufficient personnel, and resistance to change, this vision offers a robust foundation for effectively tackling these concerns. The implementation of these improvements is expected to enhance the calibre and accessibility of healthcare services. This transitional change ensures healthcare is both innovative and inclusive, particularly in socioeconomically disadvantaged regions. This measure is expected to enhance the general welfare and economic success of the population in Saudi Arabia. The future of healthcare in the Kingdom hinges on the effective implementation of evidence-based therapy, collaborative cooperation, and equitable practices. The healthcare sector possesses significant potential for substantial positive transformation, notwithstanding its continuous nature.

Introduction

Vision 2030 for Saudi Arabia was released in April 2016 (Saudi Arabia Vision 2030 Secretariat, 2024) and is a complete strategic framework to diversify the economy and make people's lives better in general. As an addition to the goals set out in Vision 2023, this one provides a well-organised framework for groundbreaking work in various fields. The healthcare industry has received much attention, especially because of Vision 2030s framework, which aims to improve the standard and outcomes of healthcare for the people of Saudi Arabia (Khan et al., 2020; Khan & Iqbal, 2020). Along the lines of Vision 2030. The ‘Model of Care’ is the focal point of this document because of its potential impact on public-funded hospitals (Rahman & Alsharqi, 2019).

Saudi Arabia Vision 2030 encompasses various sectors including healthcare (Saudi Arabia Vision 2030 Secretariat, 2024). The primary objective of Vision 2030 is to enhance healthcare services, foster the use of preventive care measures, attract investments, and establish a resilient healthcare system. The Vision 2030 initiative aims to enhance health insurance coverage, establish medical cities and specialised healthcare facilities, and foster healthcare innovation among its stakeholders (Young et al., 2021).

Saudi Arabia has made notable advancements in healthcare development; yet, it continues to face challenges in achieving equitable and unbiased access, addressing disparities in healthcare outcomes, and enhancing the quality of care (Alharbi, 2018a, 2018b). The healthcare sector encounters ongoing problems because of expanding urbanisation, shifting demographics, and increasing incidence of chronic diseases. These obstacles offer prospects for ingenuity, cooperation, and financial commitment in healthcare solutions that have the potential to transform the world (Albejaidi & Nair, 2019; Khalil et al., 2018).

This article aims to highlight the pivotal role of Vision 2030s strategic framework in transforming Saudi Arabia's healthcare sector. The significance of employing a methodical approach to foster continuous innovation and international collaboration in the quest for excellence in global healthcare is discussed. We also presented programmes and planned technological changes that are intended to strengthen the healthcare workforce. By examining the implications of these initiatives, both within the Kingdom and globally, this review seeks to shed light on the lessons and insights that can be drawn from Saudi Arabia's ambitious healthcare reform.

Healthcare system prior to conceptualization of Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia's healthcare system has changed significantly, showing its commitment to public health. The first government hospital opened in Jeddah in 1925 (Sebai et al., 2001), launching modern healthcare in the country. This event marked the start of limited structured healthcare. After improving healthcare infrastructure, new hospitals and healthcare centres were built across the kingdom (Saudi Arabia Vision 2030 Secretariat, 2024).

Saudi Arabia made significant healthcare improvements from the 1950s to the 1970s. In 1950, the government created the Ministry of Health to improve healthcare. The King Faisal specialised Hospital and Research Center in Riyadh set new standards for specialised healthcare and medical research in 1975 (Alkhamis & Miraj, 2020). Saudi Arabia prioritised primary healthcare in the 1980s and 1990s. The Primary Healthcare Expansion Program (PHEP) was launched to improve rural healthcare services. The project has greatly improved preventive healthcare and illness prevention(Sebai et al., 2001).

During the initial years of the twenty-first century, Saudi Arabia experienced notable advancements in technology and healthcare. The initiation of the Health Transformation Program (HTP) in 2005 aimed to enhance the quality, accessibility, and efficiency of healthcare services. The objective of this programme was to update healthcare infrastructure, implement electronic health records (EHRs), and enhance the capabilities of healthcare professionals (Alhur, 2024; Young et al., 2021).

Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, under the leadership of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, seeks to revolutionise both society and the economy, with a particular emphasis on healthcare. This undertaking signifies a deliberate shift away from the kingdom's reliance on oil. The objective is to achieve economic expansion and enhance public services, with a particular emphasis on healthcare (Alasiri & Mohammed, 2022; Riley et al., 2023).

The suggested changes to healthcare in this framework are meant to make a big difference in how and why healthcare is provided in the kingdom. There are greater emphasis on patient-centered care, preventative measures, and integrating health services across the whole care continuum than just improving buildings and services that are already there (Chowdhury et al., 2021).

Prior to conceptualisation of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia's healthcare system, predominantly funded by the government, had achieved significant advancements in public health (Alaboudi et al., 2016; Alzeidan et al., 2016). Nevertheless, the system had challenges such as an increasing elderly population, a rise in individuals with chronic ailments, and a significant scarcity of healthcare practitioners (Al-Hanawi et al., 2019). These challenges prompted the implementation of proactive measures aimed at enhancing the quality of services, including the expansion of healthcare infrastructure and the promotion of technological advancements (Saeed et al., 2023).

Despite experiencing a 37.5% increase in primary healthcare visits, improved patient satisfaction, and enhanced chronic disease screening by mid-2019, the nation continued to grapple with challenges pertaining to primary healthcare infrastructure, human resources, geography, cultural and lifestyle behaviours, and patient satisfaction (Al Khashan et al., 2021). Furthermore, except for nurses, the number of Saudi women and nationals employed in health care occupations was insufficient, despite the critical nature of these fields in relation to the realisation of Vision 2030s objectives (Al-Dossary, 2018; Albejaidi & Nair, 2019; AlRuthia et al., 2018). Challenges encountered in the domain encompassed personnel shortages, disparities in expertise, gender-based disparities, and concerns regarding accessibility (Alqahtani et al., 2022). To address these challenges, a meticulous strategy was required, encompassing substantial investments in specialised education, healthcare, and nursing that corresponded with the future health requirements of the population in terms of quantity, proficiency, and gender composition.

Prior to Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia's healthcare system was plagued by numerous issues, including financial constraints, disparities in care quality, and reliance on foreign healthcare professionals (Al Khashan et al., 2021; Albejaidi & Nair, 2019; Alonazi, 2017). Clearly, the entire system must be restructured to ensure that all citizens of the kingdom have access to high-quality healthcare (Perednia & Allen, 1995). The Saudi Arabian 2030 vision places significant emphasis on the contributions of nurses and the entire healthcare workforce in order to achieve these objectives. The text discusses challenges and potential remedies within the field of nursing, in addition to emphasising the importance of public-private collaborations in public health initiatives to address mutual risks (Acharya et al., 2017; Al-Dossary, 2018; Al-Hanawi et al., 2020).

Vision 2030 healthcare model

Saudi Arabia is building an innovative healthcare framework and model under Vision 2030 to improve efficiency, equity, and quality (Almodhen & Moneir, 2023; Alshammary et al., 2024). This strategy emphasises preventive care, remote healthcare, and public-private partnerships to improve healthcare delivery. The Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia is included in the healthcare transformation journey, highlighting difficulties, lessons learned, and progress accomplished (Yousef et al., 2023).

Saudi Vision 2030 calls for a major redesign of healthcare delivery to be patient-centered. According to Joshi et al. (15), the paradigm shift emphasises a more tailored and patient-centric approach to healthcare (Joshi et al., 2002). Zolnierek and Dimatteo (Zolnierek & Dimatteo, 2009) state that the patient-centric paradigm stresses that patients are active participants in their health and wellbeing journeys. This move indicates a more holistic approach to patient care. A uniform approach is rejected under this patient-centric paradigm because it recognises the need to tailor treatment to each patient's needs. Braithwaite et al. (Braithwaite et al., 2017) found that personalised tactics improve healthcare outcomes. Eisenbeiss et al. (Eisenbeiss et al., 2008) describe the model as including physical, psychological, social, and environmental aspects. This shows the complex interactions that affect health.

The foundation of patient-centered care is patient participation in health decisions. Acharya et al. (2017) agreed that this method empowers people to actively construct their treatment plans. This cooperative approach fosters a sense of ownership and accountability for one's health, improving treatment compliance and health outcomes. Faiman and Tariman (2019) also stress the importance of open and honest communication between healthcare providers and patients to build trust and inform patients.

Research by Rathert et al. (2013) and Faiman and Tariman (2019) shows that patient-centered treatment improves healthcare outcomes and patient satisfaction. The above research emphasises the necessity for a patient-centric strategy in healthcare, in line with global healthcare trends that stress quality, efficiency, and patient satisfaction. Furthermore, empirical evidence supports the patient-centric concept. David et al. (2018) and Lawton et al. (2017) found that patient-centered treatment improves healthcare outcomes and satisfaction. These studies show that patient engagement improves clinical outcomes, healthcare costs, and patient happiness. The research emphasises the importance of patient-centered healthcare. Saudi Arabia is implementing the patient-centric model of care to follow global healthcare trends that improve quality, efficiency, and patient satisfaction. Global healthcare systems recognise the benefits of patient-centered care and are actively implementing it. Saudi Arabia's commitment to this plan shows its commitment to providing high-quality healthcare that prioritises its people.

As part of its Vision 2030 plan, Saudi Arabia is currently completely changing its health care system. The goal of this change is to deal with the rising number of lifestyle-related diseases and the big effects of noncommunicable diseases. Mahmood (2018) stressed how important it is to quickly deal with non-communicable diseases, which have become a major public health problem. Of note, recent review by Alkhamis (2017)carefully analyzes how hospital privatisation affects medical care in Saudi Arabia. The analysis found little scientific evidence that privatisation improves medical care. Before privatising, Saudi Arabia must overhaul healthcare financing, including auditing and efficiency, according to the study. It also stresses the significance of post-privatisation measures to guarantee vulnerable populations have access to high-quality healthcare while reducing care provider prices. This review establishes the foundation for a shift towards value-based care, which prioritises patient outcomes rather than the quantity of treatments administered. The initiatives stated by Alhazzani et al. (2022), support this approach. The objectives of this plan are to enhance the calibre of healthcare services and enhance the sustainability and cost-efficiency of the healthcare system. This aligns with global initiatives aimed at enhancing the efficiency of healthcare services. Ensuring alignment between healthcare systems and performance metrics that accurately reflect operational efficiency, patient satisfaction, and care delivery is of the utmost importance. This indicates that global cooperation is essential for the transformation of health systems (Braithwaite et al., 2017).

The World Health Organization (WHO) actively endorses these endeavours through the provision of an extensive array of global health indicators that nations endeavouring to enhance their healthcare systems may consult for inspiration. These indicators provide a comprehensive assessment of health outcomes, healthcare accessibility, and healthcare system efficacy. Contributing critical information can aid nations in enhancing their healthcare systems, as exemplified by Saudi Arabia (Hoeur & Kritchanchai, 2015).

Vision 2030 states that Saudi Arabia intends to transform its healthcare system to place a greater emphasis on the individual. This is a significant shift for the healthcare system of the nation. By placing emphasis on the desires, requirements, and welfare of the inhabitants, this approach guarantees the provision of healthcare that is not only accessible but also of optimal quality. An essential component of Vision 2030, the Health Sector Transformation Program demonstrates this dedication (Althumairi et al., 2023; Young et al., 2021). It establishes strategic objectives to ensure the long-term accessibility of healthcare, enhance health outcomes, and improve the overall healthcare experience of individuals. By adopting international standards and trends, Saudi Arabia positions itself to be a leader in healthcare innovation. The objective of this approach is to establish a healthcare system that prioritises patient needs, is responsive, and equitable.

As a result of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative, the National Guidelines Center was established. This centre exemplifies the Kingdom's commitment to transforming healthcare through the implementation of a data-driven framework (Almatrudi & Rabbani, 2022; Ansell & Gash, 2007). The objective of this initiative is to standardise medical protocols throughout the entirety of Saudi Arabia. This will mitigate variations in patient outcomes by ensuring that medical interventions are grounded in the most recent scientific investigations. A significant component of this endeavour entails the development of comprehensive clinical guidelines. By providing physicians and nurses with a standardised set of guidelines to adhere to, the objective is to enhance the calibre and effectiveness of healthcare provision.

Using methods that are based on evidence is a key part of Saudi Arabia's plan for a future where cutting edge research and widely accepted standards guide healthcare decisions (Alam et al., 2014; Alasiri & Mohammed, 2022; Alhazzani et al., 2022). As new research comes out, the National standards Center shows its commitment by constantly reviewing and updating its standards. This shows how medical science is always changing. This ensures that the healthcare system can adapt to new discoveries in medicine while still upholding the importance and usefulness of clinical standards to provide the best care for patients. The reason Saudi Arabia is taking part in this difficult process is to improve the health and welfare of its people and make the Kingdom a world star in evidence-based healthcare.

Acharya et al. (2017) and Mohammed Basheeruddin Asdaq et al. (2021) emphasise the importance of removing barriers to successful healthcare models. Numerous research have shown that healthcare personnel face knowledge gaps, negative attitudes toward evidence-based medicine, and difficulties applying protocols. The above concerns highlight the importance of ongoing learning and seeking help to ensure healthcare environments follow evidence-based standards. Understanding how primary care doctors and physiotherapists see evidence-based practice helps explain how research findings are used in patient treatment. This emphasises the need for specific interventions to improve healthcare workers’ evidence-based practice (Alsaadi, 2022).

Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia's healthcare reform, relies on the National Guidelines Center. It aims to promote an evidence-based healthcare system that emphasises standardised, high-quality services (Saeed et al., 2023; Yousef et al., 2023). They do this by removing barriers to evidence-based practice and following therapeutic principles. Saudi Arabia may lead evidence-based healthcare and enhance patient outcomes (Lruwaili et al., 2022).

National Guidelines Center functions depend on ongoing research and evaluation. Healthcare is dynamic due to the ongoing publication of fresh research and evidence. Clinical guidelines must be reviewed and updated to reflect medical advances to remain relevant. To keep up with healthcare system changes, the centre oversees the study and monitors standards efficacy. Vision 2030 highlights technology's role in healthcare transformation. This comprehensive approach aims to modernise and improve Saudi Arabia's healthcare system by implementing new technologies. The transformation includes the widespread use of EHRs, telemedicine, and cutting-edge medical technology (Alharbi, 2018a).

The process of digitizing healthcare data

Integration of EHR into clinical practice is a significant accomplishment for Saudi Arabia's healthcare infrastructure. By digitising patient data and making it easier to access medical records in a variety of healthcare settings, EHRs have transformed the healthcare industry. Care coordination, the prevention of medical errors, and patient safety are all improved by the use of electronic record-keeping (Alharbi, 2018a). Numerous studies have demonstrated that the installation of EHR leads to improvements in healthcare outcomes, such as the reduction of hospital readmissions and the management of medications (Kruse et al., 2016). In addition, EHRs make it possible for medical professionals to make use of data analytics tools in order to recognise patterns, monitor the health of the population, and personalise treatment for each individual patient (Hoeur & Kritchanchai, 2015). In Saudi Arabia, the use of EHRs are creating the groundwork for clinical treatment that is both more efficient and driven by data.

Another significant component of Saudi Arabia's healthcare programme is the utilisation of telemedicine. Telemedicine makes it easier for patients and medical professionals to interact and work together, particularly in impoverished or remote places. In response to the rapid acceleration of the global acceptance of telemedicine brought about by COVID-19, Saudi Arabia made investments in telehealth infrastructure as well as regulatory frameworks (Mohammed Basheeruddin Asdaq et al., 2021). Telemedicine makes healthcare more accessible, decreases the cost of healthcare, and increases patient satisfaction (Hollander & Carr, 2020). The management of chronic diseases, the provision of mental health services, and the facilitation of primary care consultations are all areas in which telemedicine has been demonstrated to be beneficial (Smith et al., 2020). Telemedicine services in Saudi Arabia are designed to enhance health outcomes and remove the geographical obstacles that prevent patients from receiving treatment.

To maximise the impact of EHRs and telemedicine in healthcare, many challenges must be solved. Data privacy and security are top priorities. Digitising healthcare data increases the danger of data breaches and unauthorised access to patient data (Pastorino et al., 2019). Saudi Arabia must invest in cybersecurity technologies and regulatory frameworks to protect patient data and comply with privacy laws. Also, the digital gap still makes it hard for a lot of people to use healthcare technologies, especially in rural or underserved areas (Agarwal et al., 2013). For everyone in the Kingdom to have equal access to telemedicine services, the internet needs to be stable, and people need to learn how to use technology.

In addition, healthcare workers need to be trained and given help in order to use EHRs and telemedicine systems effectively in clinical practice. According to a study by Al Mutair et al. (2023), ongoing education and professional development programmes are very important for improving healthcare providers’ digital skills and confidence in using technology-driven care delivery methods. To get people in Saudi Arabia to stop being resistant to change and get the most out of healthcare tools, it is important to put money into training and promote a culture of digital innovation.

Challenges of implementing transformation

The addition of EHRs and telemedicine modernises Saudi Arabia's healthcare system and improves its efficiency and accessibility. Saudi Arabia can improve patient outcomes, save healthcare costs, and improve public health by using digital technologies. These technologies can alter the Kingdom's healthcare system, but data security, the digital gap, and healthcare professional training must be addressed.

Though Vision 2030 advocates for reforms, their implementation is not always straightforward. Consistency in the implementation of novel techniques across all healthcare facilities in the kingdom constitutes a critical concern. Significant reforms are required in the domains of healthcare transportation, infrastructure, and vocational education (Hu & Scarfone, 2012). It is also crucial to address resistance to change in a constructive manner, whether it originates from healthcare personnel or patients, in order to ensure successful implementation (Sweileh, 2017). For instance`, insights from other nations that have undergone comparable transformations in healthcare can illuminate the criticality of effective communication`, inclusive participation of all relevant stakeholders`, and gradual implementation of changes (Hoeur & Kritchanchai, 2015).

Vision 2030 appears to have significant potential for the future of health care in Saudi Arabia. The kingdom is a regional leader in healthcare due to the initiative's adherence to international standards, emphasis on evidence-based practice, and prioritisation of patient-centered care (El Mahalli et al., 2016). As these changes are currently being implemented, they must be continuously monitored, assessed, and modified in order to address emerging challenges and achieve the objectives outlined in Vision 2030. Saudi Arabia is strategically positioning itself as a frontrunner in healthcare innovation through the implementation of technological advancements, patient-centric approaches, and process standardisation (Abdullah Alharbi, 2023). Implementing these modifications will not only enhance the overall well-being of the populace in the kingdom, but also foster the development of its economy and society while establishing a precedent for healthcare reform in the region and further afield (Alkhamis, 2017).

Vision 2030 is an innovative initiative in Saudi Arabia that aims to fundamentally transform the nation's healthcare system. However, this strategy is not without its drawbacks, including inadequate infrastructure, opposition to change, and the escalating prevalence of noncommunicable diseases (El-Mahalli et al., 2012). In order for Vision 2030s Model of Care, which seeks to deliver patient-centered, high-quality healthcare services nationwide, to be effective, these issues must be resolved. It is critical to establish global health standards and implement digital health technology in order to address these issues (Alaboudi et al., 2016). Furthermore, fostering an environment that promotes continuous learning and innovative thinking among healthcare practitioners would be critical for effecting positive change within the system (El-Mahalli et al., 2012). Many diverse organisations will be required to collaborate in order to achieve the healthcare objectives of Vision 2030 (Bah et al., 2015). The business sector, healthcare professionals, individuals requiring medical care, and the government are among these categories (El Mahalli et al., 2016).

The reality is that Vision 2030s Model of Care is difficult to implement in the healthcare system of Saudi Arabia due to the system-specific differences. Insufficient resources pose significant challenges for state institutions, particularly those situated in remote and impoverished regions (Brown, 2019). Securing contemporary medical equipment and maintaining healthcare infrastructure is arduous due to these limitations. The provision of sophisticated services and the quality of care are directly impacted by this. However, a significant issue in these regions is the dearth of suitably qualified healthcare practitioners, as highlighted by (Jha et al., 2009). In remote regions, the implementation of patient-centered care models is impeded by a dearth of adequately trained personnel. This issue is exacerbated by the tendency of healthcare professionals to favour urban employment.

To address these challenges, it is critical to employ resources judiciously, as stated in Vision 2030. This entails implementing focused training initiatives for healthcare professionals and enhancing infrastructure in areas with insufficient services. It is imperative that the government, healthcare organisations, and local communities collaborate in order to guarantee equitable and impartial healthcare access for all individuals, irrespective of socioeconomic status or place of residence (Belrhiti et al., 2018; Eisenbeiss et al., 2008). Additionally, leadership is critical for introducing innovation and change into the healthcare industry. Effective leadership is essential for the seamless implementation of Vision 2030s healthcare strategy. Such leadership can inspire healthcare personnel to embrace novel approaches and overcome their aversion to change (Belrhiti et al., 2018).

One significant challenge that hinders the implementation of Vision 2030s Model of Care is resistance to change (Yousef et al., 2023). Saeed et al. (2023) identifiedvarious factors contributing to this resistance, including fear of the unknown, concerns Enumerate additional factors contributing to this hesitancy, including apprehension regarding enhanced work responsibilities, aversion to perceived challenges to professional autonomy, or dread of the unknown. In order to overcome this resistance, it is critical to implement effective management strategies. Effective communication is critical in this regard as it facilitates comprehension of the Model of Care's fundamental concepts, advantages, and objectives. Resistance is reduced when healthcare professionals are involved in decision-making processes and feel a sense of ownership and participation. Schools must place a significant emphasis on training and skill development in accordance with the Model of Care framework. These programmes facilitate the improvement of healthcare professionals’ technological proficiency and foster a patient-centric care environment that promotes innovation and prioritises the needs of the patient.

In the healthcare industry, effective leadership is paramount for fostering an environment that encourages innovation. Proficient leaders foster an atmosphere that promotes the generation of novel concepts and the undertaking of experiments. This facilitates ongoing improvement and the incorporation of novel methodologies. Implementing collaborative governance approaches may additionally foster partnerships among diverse institutions and increase stakeholder participation, thereby facilitating collective efforts towards the achievement of shared healthcare objectives (Agarwal et al., 2013). Saudi Arabia may be able to surmount the challenges associated with implementing the healthcare framework of Vision 2030 through the application of strategic collaboration and effective leadership. This measure would contribute to the nation's objective of establishing a contemporary, efficient, and patient-centric healthcare system (Elenkov et al., 2005)

Saudi Arabia's healthcare system is confronted with a significant challenge due to the nation's exponential population expansion. The increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes, is the source of this issue(Memish et al., 2014). Accentuate the ways in which chronic diseases, lifestyle changes, and urbanisation are increasingly impacting individuals. Vision 2030 acknowledges the critical nature of addressing noncommunicable diseases in a timely and effective manner, while concurrently implementing preventive measures. Strategies include promoting healthier lives, improving preventive healthcare, and encouraging non-communicable illness research and innovation. Public health programmes educate and encourage healthy lifestyles (Turja et al., 2018).

Improved healthcare staff skills are needed to manage and prevent non-communicable illnesses (Alharbi, 2018a). Investment in research and innovation is essential for developing evidence-based therapeutics. As healthcare utilisation and expenditure rises, its financing and operation must innovate and adapt to provide optimal care for all. Successful adaption requires a comprehensive healthcare approach. This plan must include chronic disease identification, treatment, and primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention. Saudi Arabia can overcome these problems and provide excellent healthcare by executing a thorough and coordinated approach.

Vision 2030 promises to transform Saudi Arabia's healthcare system. Poor infrastructure, workforce shortages, change opposition, and rising noncommunicable illness rates hamper progress. However, the vision gives us a solid foundation to solve these issues. Saudi Arabia should address these issues by carefully allocating resources, encouraging collaboration, adopting effective change management, and emphasising innovation and prevention (Neve et al., 2020). The successful implementation of Vision 2030s Model of Care could improve healthcare quality and accessibility, especially in low-income areas. The kingdom might lead regional healthcare reform by adopting new technologies and fostering patient-centered treatment.

Vision 2030 describes Saudi Arabia's innovative healthcare system. Policy makers, healthcare experts, researchers, and community must work together to succeed. A collaborative approach ensures a variety of perspectives, enabling the creation of complete and effective healthcare solutions. Healthcare model usefulness requires financial investments in facility upgrades and staff training. However, achieving this goal requires dedication, tenacity, and adaptability to overcome obstacles. Cooperation and setting an example might make Saudi Arabia a global leader in healthcare service and innovation.

Critical analysis and future implications

Vision 2030 arises as a revolutionary plan that seeks to address these health concerns directly and completely reshape the healthcare system. The focus is on implementing preventative measures, advocating for better lives, and fostering research and innovation to tackle non-communicable diseases. In contrast to other global healthcare initiatives, Vision 2030 of Saudi Arabia adopts a more progressive stance towards governmental restructuring and enhancing patient care. However, it remains imperative to prioritise efforts towards enhancing healthcare accessibility, particularly in remote regions, and preventive measures against non-communicable diseases. Implementing the adjustments is challenging due to cultural barriers, financial constraints, and intricate logistical considerations. It is particularly critical that individuals in rural regions readily accept novel medical treatments; this cannot be emphasised enough. Fund distribution continues to be a critical determinant in ensuring that all individuals have equitable access to healthcare. The provision of healthcare is impeded by logistical challenges that manifest in both urban and rural regions. The challenges encompass the transportation and allocation of medical supplies (Alkhamis et al., 2014).

The healthcare reforms implemented in Saudi Arabia provide valuable insights into the implementation of digital tools and patient-centered models within the healthcare sector. These alterations demonstrate that nations can collaborate on matters such as research, policymaking, and healthcare provision, which is particularly beneficial for nations undergoing comparable transformations. Vision 2030 seeks to ensure universal health coverage, affordable healthcare for all, and the promotion of innovative medical research across various domains. Utilising cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and telemedicine is crucial for the future, as is emphasising the training of qualified healthcare professionals (Hassounah et al., 2020; Memish et al., 2021). Vision 2030 possesses the capacity to fundamentally transform the healthcare delivery system in Saudi Arabia and may serve as an exemplar for healthcare systems globally. With the objective of identifying sustainable and equitable global healthcare solutions, the organisation's success will be contingent on continuous evaluation, action, and international collaboration (Almodhen & Moneir, 2023; Rahman & Qattan, 2021).

In order to contribute to the scholarly discourse surrounding Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and its healthcare reforms, it is critical to examine the fundamental integration of health education and community engagement (Al-Dossary, 2022; Yousef et al., 2023). Placing health education at the forefront of the community's agenda could significantly increase individuals’ knowledge regarding how to maintain good health, lead a healthy lifestyle, and the significance of routine medical examinations. This may result in an overall reduction in the prevalence of chronic diseases and improved public health outcomes (Alzeidan et al., 2016). Engagement-oriented community health programmes have the capacity to bolster the concept of patient-centered care. These programmes have the potential to foster a culture that promotes proactive healthcare and health knowledge. These initiatives could facilitate the dissemination of health information in the media, institutions, and workplaces, thereby reaching a vast audience.

Additionally, for the achievement of the Vision 2030 objectives, it is critical to establish a robust fundamental healthcare network that ensures all individuals, including those residing in the most remote regions, have access to high-quality medical care. Efficient and improved healthcare delivery can be achieved through the enhancement of primary care facilities through the provision of necessary equipment, recruitment of highly competent personnel, and integration of digital health services. This approach not only addresses critical health concerns but also prioritises prompt identification and management of illnesses, thereby diminishing the necessity for inpatient stays and specialised medical services (Alhazzani et al., 2022; Alotaibi et al., 2022). As a result, a well-organised primary healthcare system could significantly increase the sustainability and longevity of the healthcare industry in Saudi Arabia, demonstrating to the world how to integrate conventional and innovative approaches.

In contrast to healthcare initiatives globally, Vision 2030 of Saudi Arabia represents a progressive strategy aimed at streamlining administrative procedures and enhancing the quality of patient care (Memish et al., 2021; Rahman & Qattan, 2021). Furthermore, it highlighted the criticality of leadership in the healthcare sector, particularly in times of crisis such as COVID-19 (Al Mutair et al., 2023; Alhazzani et al., 2022; Hassounah et al., 2020). However, it remains imperative to prioritise efforts towards enhancing healthcare accessibility, particularly in remote regions, and preventive measures against non-communicable diseases. Challenges in the execution of the modifications encompass practical concerns, financial constraints, and cultural barriers. The manner in which medical personnel attend to patients is of utmost significance (Abdullah Alharbi, 2023). It is critical that individuals, particularly those residing in rural regions, embrace innovative healthcare approaches. Additionally, it is critical to ensure that all individuals have equitable access to healthcare. The provision of healthcare is impeded by logistical challenges that manifest in both urban and rural regions. The challenges encompass the transportation and allocation of medical supplies (Alluhidan et al., 2020)

The changes that were made to healthcare in Saudi Arabia teach us a lot about how to use digital solutions and patient-centered models in healthcare. For example, these reforms show how countries can work together on things like study, making policies, and providing healthcare. This can be especially helpful for countries going through similar changes (Al-Hanawi et al., 2020). As part of the Vision 2030 programme, big plans are being made for long-term healthcare funding, full coverage, and new medical research. For the future, it is important to use cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and telemedicine, and it is also important to focus on training skilled healthcare workers (Saeed et al., 2023). Vision 2030 has the potential to completely change the way healthcare is provided in Saudi Arabia and can be used as a model for healthcare systems all over the world. Accomplishing its goals will depend on ongoing evaluation, change, and international cooperation, with the goal of finding global healthcare solutions that are both long-lasting and fair for everyone.

Vision 2030 points us in a direction that is both good and hard, and it will take strong commitment, flexibility, and teamwork from everyone in society. Through preventative care, innovation, and working together, Saudi Arabia could not only fix its current healthcare problems but also set an example for healthcare excellence in the area.

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia's healthcare is advancing thanks to Vision 2030, proving recent efforts were fruitful. Vision 2030s healthcare model provides a comprehensive foundation for meaningful progress in a variety of healthcare settings. Even though some don't want change, the Model of Care is growing in popularity since everyone wants to meet Vision 2030s healthcare goals. Saudi healthcare experts are adapting to the country's fast-growing population. Their efforts centre on this. By building infrastructure and hiring more healthcare personnel, the government can meet rising demand for high-quality care. The Vision emphasises evidence-based strategies and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Their role is to foster innovation and improve patient care and healthcare outcomes. Despite ongoing difficulties like how to handle people who don't want to change, stakeholders remain committed to Vision 2030s healthcare plan. The Kingdom has long provided excellent healthcare to its residents. Transformational initiatives are yielding results. Vision 2030 drives success in the evolving healthcare industry, driving the nation toward equal access to cutting-edge medical treatments and better health. The consistent rise indicates how Vision 2030 has changed things and helped Saudi Arabia have a brighter future.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).