Advancing Primary Healthcare in Saudi Arabia: Integrating Nursing, Dental, and Community Health Approaches in Line with Vision 2030

Abstract

Background: Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 aims to transform the healthcare system, with a strong emphasis on developing primary care. This comprehensive review examines the potential for integrating nursing, dental, and community health approaches to strengthen the primary healthcare workforce in alignment with Vision 2030 objectives.

Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Studies published between 2016-2024 addressing primary healthcare workforce development in Saudi Arabia, with a focus on nursing, dental, and community health, were included. Thematic analysis identified key strategies and challenges for workforce integration.

Results: The review identified three main themes: (1) expanding the role of nurses in primary care delivery, (2) integrating oral health into primary care through dental workforce development, and (3) leveraging community health workers to improve population health outcomes. Key challenges included workforce shortages, limited interprofessional collaboration, and the need for enhanced training and education programs. Promising strategies involved task-shifting, interprofessional education, and community-based interventions.

Conclusion: Integrating nursing, dental, and community health workforces in primary care has significant potential to advance Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 healthcare goals. Overcoming workforce challenges requires strategic planning, collaborative approaches, and investment in education and training. Future research should evaluate the impact of integrated workforce models on access, quality, and efficiency of primary healthcare services in Saudi Arabia.