The Impact of Health Sector Privatization on the Quality of Health Services in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56830/IJAMSSI202606Keywords:
Privatization, health sector, health service quality, Saudi hospitals, Vision 2030Abstract
This study aimed to demonstrate the impact of healthcare privatization on the quality of healthcare services in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The researcher employed a descriptive analytical approach, utilizing a questionnaire administered to a sample of 251 employees working in Saudi Arabian hospitals. The results revealed a positive correlation between the privatization of Saudi hospitals and the quality of healthcare services provided. The study found that privatization has multiple motivations, including the drive to improve the quality of services offered to citizens. Despite the already high quality of healthcare services provided in the hospitals under study, the research participants appreciated the role of privatization in achieving even higher quality, or at least achieving the same level of quality without significant government expenditure and by reducing the burden on healthcare staff. The researcher recommended the necessity of developing robust legal and regulatory frameworks to protect the rights of beneficiaries and prevent service monopolies, while ensuring equitable geographical distribution of healthcare services after privatization. The researcher also recommended increasing awareness programs for healthcare workers and the community regarding the objectives and benefits of privatization to ensure social acceptance and institutional cooperation for a successful transition.
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