During Ministry of Health inspections, 5 violating establishments were closed, and the compliance rate exceeded 91%
The inspections resulted in the detection of 130 violations and the closure of 5 violating health institutions in Riyadh, Madinah and Asir, while the compliance rate exceeded 91%, an indicator that reflects the efficiency of oversight and the high level of compliance in the health sector, in line with the objectives of the health sector transformation program stemming from Saudi Vision 2030 in raising the quality of health care and enhancing patient safety.
Ongoing monitoring and awareness system
explained The Ministry of Health that these inspections are part of an ongoing monitoring and awareness program throughout the year, focusing on areas most closely related to patient safety, including hair transplant services and cosmetic laser procedures.
The inspections included verifying the validity of licenses for practitioners and healthcare facilities, assessing adherence to infection control standards and medical procedure safety protocols, monitoring practitioners' clinical privileges, ensuring the safety and regular maintenance of laser equipment, and confirming that services are provided within licensed facilities and by qualified healthcare practitioners.
A number of violations were identified, most notably practicing without a license, exceeding the scope of clinical privileges, and performing hair transplant procedures without a license or by nursing staff without the supervision of qualified physicians. Additional observations were made regarding infection control and shortages of necessary medications and medical equipment.
Unified number for customer service
The Ministry of Health confirmed the allocation of the unified number (937) to serve beneficiaries who previously received services at closed facilities, providing them with necessary medical guidance and referring them to accredited healthcare facilities when needed. The Ministry also indicated that legal procedures against violating facilities are being completed in accordance with relevant regulations and bylaws.
It clarified that the applicable penalties include fines of up to 100,000 riyals, closure of the violating facility and suspension of its operations, in addition to imprisonment for up to six months for unlicensed practitioners, as stipulated by relevant regulations.
Verification of health facility licenses
The ministry urged beneficiaries to verify the licensing of healthcare facilities and the classification of practitioners before receiving services, and to ensure that cosmetic procedures are performed under the supervision of a qualified physician, that infection control standards are followed, and that approved medical equipment is available.
It also noted that violations can be reported via the number (937), emphasizing its ongoing efforts under the slogan “Supportive Oversight” to guarantee a safe and healthy environment and enhance public trust in the healthcare services provided.
