Saudi Arabia: An integrated health model to raise life expectancy within Vision 2030
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues its ambitious journey towards building an advanced and sustainable healthcare model, based on the pillars of Vision 2030 , which has brought about a qualitative shift in the concepts of healthcare and social services. This movement is spearheaded by the Health Sector Transformation Program , which not only focuses on treatment but also places human health and quality of life at the heart of the state's public policies, relying on an integrated approach across various government entities.
From traditional care to comprehensive prevention
Historically, healthcare systems in the region have focused primarily on treatment and providing hospital beds. However, the launch of Vision 2030 in 2016 marked a pivotal turning point, with the Kingdom adopting a "health in all policies" strategy. This radical shift moved the focus from simply treating diseases to promoting prevention before they occur, by creating an environment that supports physical and mental health, reflecting a firm governmental commitment to building a vibrant society.
One-government approach and integrated efforts
The current Saudi healthcare model embodies the concept of a "one-stop government approach," where barriers between sectors dissolve to serve a common goal. Improving health indicators is no longer solely the responsibility of the Ministry of Health, but rather the product of integrated policies involving the transportation, municipal, sports, and environmental sectors. This collaboration has yielded tangible results, most notably a life expectancy of 79.7 years , a figure steadily approaching the Vision 2030 target of 80 years, reflecting the success of integrated efforts and coordinated policies to enhance quality of life.
Record low in deaths and accidents
One of the most significant outcomes of this integrated effort is the remarkable success achieved in the area of road safety, a global concern. As a result of unifying the regulatory and operational roles of security, engineering, and health authorities, the Kingdom has achieved a substantial 60% reduction in road traffic fatalities and a 30% decrease in deaths resulting from unintentional injuries. These figures are not merely statistics; they demonstrate the successful integration of health and security dimensions to ensure the safety of society and the sustainability of its human capital.
Strategic dimensions and sustainable impact
This progress has dimensions that extend beyond local borders; the Kingdom today presents a regional and international model for effectively managing healthcare transformation. Improving health indicators, enhancing the efficiency of services, and facilitating access to them directly contribute to strengthening the national economy by building a productive workforce and reducing the economic burdens resulting from chronic diseases and accidents. In doing so, the Kingdom affirms that human health is the most important investment, and that government integration is the key to achieving a society that enjoys sustainable health and high well-being.
