Healthcare transformation through the implementation of a new population health management approach to achieve Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: The lessons learned in the Qassim Health Cluster

Authors

• Majed S. Alharbi, From the Department of Population Health Management (Alharbi, Osagiede, Idris, Tawfi, Al-Harbi, Alqhaidan, Alghaith, Alshammari), Qassim Health Cluster, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia and from the Department of Community Medicine (Osagiede), Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, Nigeria.
• Emmanuel F. Osagiede, From the Department of Population Health Management (Alharbi, Osagiede, Idris, Tawfi, Al-Harbi, Alqhaidan, Alghaith, Alshammari), Qassim Health Cluster, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia and from the Department of Community Medicine (Osagiede), Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, Nigeria.
• Raed F. Al-Harbi, From the Department of Population Health Management (Alharbi, Osagiede, Idris, Tawfi, Al-Harbi, Alqhaidan, Alghaith, Alshammari), Qassim Health Cluster, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia and from the Department of Community Medicine (Osagiede), Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, Nigeria.

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objectives: To investigate how the Qassim Health Cluster (QHC) implemented population health management (PHM) in tandem with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and to pinpoint the main issues and lessons gained from this implementation. Methods: This research used a descriptive population study design and was conducted between November and December 2024. We collected data using a mixed-method approach, gathering qualitative data from 11 PHM implementers and secondary quantitative data from 102,946 healthcare service users. Results: Qassim Health Cluster’s PHM implementation team established a regional 5-year strategic plan to follow the national PHM framework, utilizing data-based decision-making to implement the strategy. The major challenges identified include the lack of availability of relevant comprehensive PHM policy documents and guidelines, ineffective and delayed technical support, and resistance to change among stakeholders. Lobbying and effective communication were 2 useful strategies for PHM implementation. Conclusion: In the coming decades, the QHC’s PHM implementation will drastically shift healthcare practices toward a more sustainable healthcare system that aligns with Vision 2030. To guarantee the successful operation of PHM in the QHC and other health clusters, more advocacy for institutional support, technical assistance, adequate funding, and sponsorship is required.

Article Type

Research Article

First Page

1223

Last Page

1231

Recommended Citation

Alharbi, Majed S.; Osagiede, Emmanuel F.; and Al-Harbi, Raed F. (2025) "Healthcare transformation through the implementation of a new population health management approach to achieve Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: The lessons learned in the Qassim Health Cluster," Saudi Medical Journal: Vol. 46: Iss. 10, Article 15.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15537/smj.2025.46.10.20250174