Coinciding with World Consumer Rights Day, the Ministry of Health reiterated its commitment to protecting patients' rights and enhancing the quality of healthcare services provided.
This commitment marks a continuation of the Ministry's efforts to improve the patients’ experiences and ensure they receive comprehensive and integrated care in accordance with world-class standards. It is also in line with the objectives of the Health Sector Transformation Program and the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to build a "vibrant society" whose members enjoy healthy and sustainable lives.
As part of these efforts, the Ministry of Health has concluded a Service Level Agreement with the Consumer Protection Association. It aims at defining consumers' rights and responsibilities in the healthcare sector on a regular and clear basis. The agreement seeks to enhance the quality of healthcare services and protect patients' rights, ensuring the highest levels of satisfaction and benefit.
The Ministry also issued the "Patient Bill of Rights and Responsibilities," a comprehensive reference that outlines the frameworks necessary to protect the rights of beneficiaries. The bill includes ensuring patients receive safe healthcare, maintaining the confidentiality of their information, their right to access details of treatment plans, and their active participation in medical decisions. It also grants patients the right to submit comments and complaints without affecting the quality of healthcare they receive.
In support of these efforts, the Ministry of Health has invited beneficiaries to review the "Consumer Guide" issued by the Consumer Protection Association. The guide aims to establish clear standards that ensure everyone has access to fair and advanced services, particularly in the healthcare sector. This will enhance patients' awareness of their rights and contribute to improving their healthcare experience.
The Ministry affirms its ongoing development of the health sector by launching qualitative initiatives aimed at enhancing the efficiency of health services, ensuring their sustainability, and improving patient experience. These efforts seek to achieve the highest levels of satisfaction among beneficiaries, meeting their aspirations and enhancing confidence in the health system.