Toward a Financially Sustainable Healthcare System in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

BACKGROUND This study aimed to find out the application of a sustainability model framework to test the financial sustainability of the healthcare system in Saudi Arabia and to suggest some reforms required to maintain a sustainable healthcare system in the country. METHODS To test the financial sustainability of the publicly funded healthcare system in Saudi Arabia, we applied analytical techniques using a sustainability model framework based on the framework indicators proposed previously by the Office of Sustainable Development, Bureau for Africa, U.S. Agency for International Development. An empirical time-trend analysis was also used to judge the financial sustainability of the healthcare system of Saudi Arabia in the future. RESULTS The results showed significant threats to the financial sustainability of the healthcare system. Saudi Arabia's revenues, gross domestic product (GDP), government budget, and Ministry of Health (MOH) budget were all directly influenced by the oil prices. CONCLUSION The healthcare system in Saudi Arabia seems to be financially unsustainable, and the need for change is inevitable. Saudi's ambitious program of development "Vision 2030" will surmount the challenges faced by the country and will lead to substantial enhancements in the health sector in Saudi Arabia, and other opportunities for improvement do exist.