As Saudi Arabia continues to work towards realizing Vision 2030, its national plan to diversify the economy and develop various public sectors, one key area of focus on its agenda this year is its healthcare sector. In line with this effort, the Kingdom has announced that it will begin granting free visas to foreign scientists and experts.
According to Khaleej Times, Ahmed Al Aamiri, the secretary general of the Saudi Health Council, praised the new visa policy approved as part of a set of health sector initiatives suggested by the Council. The visa, which will be issued to those with a proven track record and competency in the field, is expected to attract the globe’s leading experts to the Kingdom to take part in research programs regarding its healthcare sector.
Healthcare remains one of the top priorities for Saudi Arabia as it strives to improve standards across the Kingdom, particularly those concerning quality and patient safety.
Last month, the Kingdom held an International Patient Experience Summit, bringing together the world’s top experts on patient experience. The event, which ran from January 23 to 25, was hosted by Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Humanitarian City in strategic partnership with the Ministry of Health.
“This summit was designed to benefit Saudi decision makers who are involved in the formation of the country’s healthcare delivery policies. At the event, they learned from the world’s leading practitioners about how best practices and innovative approaches and technologies can positively contribute to a patient’s journey,” said Abdullah Bin Zarah, CEO of Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Humanitarian City, and International Patient Experience Summit Chairman.
This week, the Kingdom also announced plans to give small to medium sized businesses in the country more stake in the private healthcare sector. As reported by Saudi Gazette, Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, Minister of Health, approved a set of executive regulations that will aid private health firms to improve services and facilities.
