What drove the health system reforms in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia? An analysis

Abstract

Purpose: The primary objective of this article is to present the key directions taken by the Saudi health care system, following the announcement of the Saudi Vision 2030. The changing international scenario, together with reduced oil revenues, high population growth, emerging lifestyle diseases, and demands for better quality of care, has impacted the development of the Saudi health system. The government is now ardently pursuing private sector development and has initiated privatization and marketization as a core strategy of reforms in its health system. This article posits that the current economic conditions of the KSA and local and global market dynamics are the primary drivers for these reforms. Methods: This study is based on a scoping literature review. Findings: The intended reforms will have very limited contribution to improving the population's health, and the study remains inconclusive. Conclusion: The Kingdom took a protective approach in reforming its health sector. The social values that undergird the government actions, especially, how much priority it gives to maintain status quo in the social and economic fabric vis-à-vis economic growth and development, have exerted a significant influence on whether the KSA chooses a pro-government or a pro-market approach; however, this could lead to a hybrid model of health care system.