National health insurance system for universal health coverage: prospects and challenges in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Universal health coverage (UHC) is one of the major health policy objectives to achieve a Nation’s sustainable development. This goal is achieved when all citizens in the country enjoy the highest standards of healthcare at no or low cost. Many countries around the world have achieved UHC through a national health insurance framework and have an extensive range of risks funded by government revenue and contributions from both employers and employees. This study examines the feasibility of developing a National Health Insurance System (NHIS) as a way to achieve UHC in Saudi Arabia. It also highlights the potential role of health insurance in health coverage, improving the quality of care, and use of healthcare. Although establishing a NHIS poses many challenges, addressing them makes it feasible to provide and finance healthcare in the country.