The 2024 Annual Report on Health Sector Transformation reveals significant advancements made by the Kingdom in enhancing public health immunity and community prevention. This progress is rooted in a comprehensive system focused on early detection, vaccination, and expanding public awareness, with an overarching approach that prioritizes preventive health care as a foundational element rather than a mere response to illness.
The report highlights a notable decrease in targeted infectious diseases, including hepatitis C, dengue fever, tuberculosis, malaria, measles, rubella, and neonatal tetanus. Additionally, there has been a marked improvement in controlling HIV/AIDS infections, with reductions exceeding 87.5%. This success is attributed to the expansion of vaccination programs complemented by comprehensive national campaigns aimed at all age groups and geographic regions.
A key development in this context is the establishment of the Public Health Academy, a national training platform designed to build preventive competencies, enhance the preparedness of public health personnel, and bolster applied research in areas related to epidemics, environmental health, and both chronic and communicable diseases. The academy also supports several initiatives aimed at the early detection of genetic conditions and nutritional disorders among newborns, along with blood-related diseases that may be passed through generations.
The report further outlines the launch of a National Drowning Prevention Strategy, addressing one of the leading causes of death among children and adolescents. This initiative includes educational programs, practical training, and collaboration with the Ministries of Education and Sports to integrate awareness into curricula and summer activities. Performance indicators for this initiative will be monitored through updated electronic platforms.
In 2024, initiatives aimed at localizing health industries saw considerable advancements, contributing to the Kingdom’s health security and self-sufficiency by meeting essential health-related industrial needs domestically. The localization of 31 health products was achieved, along with knowledge transfer within the Kingdom in exchange for various incentives. Furthermore, 17 agreements were implemented as part of the mandatory products list for the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors.
On the mental health and community prevention front, the National Center for Mental Health Promotion has undertaken efforts to train community members, educators, and healthcare workers in basic psychological support and rapid crisis intervention skills. Specialized training packages and accredited certifications have been developed to broaden community awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health conditions.
These initiatives align with the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which aims to enhance prevention against health risks, promote public health, and prioritize early detection of diseases that endanger human health. This shift signifies a transformative change in the Kingdom’s health sector from a treatment-centered model to a proactive preventive framework. Consequently, this transformation has raised the average life expectancy in the Kingdom to 78.8 years, with the vision targeting a rise to 80 years by 2030. This effort fosters a vibrant community and promotes healthy, fulfilling lives for its citizens.
The findings of the report underscore the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering a robust healthcare system that emphasizes prevention and wellness. By building capacity in public health and reinforcing community engagement in health initiatives, the Kingdom is creating a sustainable approach to healthcare that benefits current and future generations. The focus on education and awareness further strengthens the cultural shift towards prioritizing health, which is essential in achieving the ambitious goals set forth in its national vision. Through these measures, the Kingdom aims to ensure that its population enjoys improved health outcomes and a better quality of life.
