Description
Healthcare Laws
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2
Healthcare Laws
Introduction
Saudi Arabia’s healthcare system has undergone significant changes in recent years, driven in
part by the implementation of three key laws. These regulations aim to enhance accessibility,
improve quality, and achieve better healthcare outcomes for the Saudi population (Young et
al., 2021). The three notable laws are the Anti-Smoking Law, the Research Ethics Code on
Living Creatures, and the Private Health Institutions Law.
Each of these laws addresses specific areas of healthcare, such as public health challenges,
ethical research practices, and the regulation of private healthcare providers (Young et al.,
2021). This discussion explores the impact of these three regulations on Saudi Arabia’s
healthcare system by examining their objectives, benefits, and potential limitations. Through
this analysis, we can gain a deeper understanding of the country’s evolving healthcare
framework and the efforts made to safeguard public well-being.
The Anti-Smoking Law
Code and Section
The Anti-Smoking Law is codified within Saudi Arabian law and is governed by Royal
Decree No. M/56 issued on 28/07/1436H. The amended Executive Regulation of the Tobacco
Control Law is detailed in Minister of Health Decision No. 1853515.
Goal and Purpose
This law encompasses various aspects of tobacco control, including restrictions on tobacco
sales, prevention of secondhand smoke exposure, and other related topics. Smoking is
prohibited in public spaces such as government offices and workplaces, and the sale of
tobacco products to minors is strictly forbidden (AlJishi et al., 2022). Additionally, tobacco
sponsorships, advertisements, and promotions are banned in Saudi Arabia. The legislation
also encourages organizations to impose penalties for violations.
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The primary objectives of the law are to protect public health and mitigate the harmful effects
of smoking throughout the Kingdom. These goals are pursued through stringent measures,
including advertising bans, restrictions on public smoking, and the introduction of graphic
warnings on cigarette packaging. The law also seeks to educate individuals about the dangers
of smoking and to support those who wish to quit (AlJishi et al., 2022).
Impact on Health
The Anti-Smoking Law has had a profound impact on healthcare facilities in Saudi Arabia.
These facilities are required to enforce smoking bans, maintain smoke-free environments, and
ensure compliance among patients and visitors. By reducing exposure to secondhand smoke,
the law has contributed to better health outcomes for patients and healthcare professionals
(AlJishi et al., 2022). Additionally, many healthcare facilities have introduced smoking
cessation programs to align with the law’s public health objectives.
Concerns
Challenges in enforcing smoking restrictions, particularly in open areas or resource-limited
settings, can hinder the law’s effectiveness. Compliance with the law is also crucial for
healthcare accreditation. Institutions that fail to adhere to these regulations may face
accreditation issues, reputational harm, and limitations in accessing government funding and
contracts. While the law has successfully reduced smoking-related health risks, its
comprehensive enforcement within healthcare settings requires sustained efforts and
resources (AlJishi et al., 2022).
The Research Ethics Code on Living Creatures
Code and Section
The Research Ethics Code on Living Creatures, established by Royal Decree No. M/59 on
14/9/1431H (24/08/2010), is a key component of Saudi Arabian law. This code governs
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scientific research involving living creatures, focusing on animal welfare and ethical
standards (Alahmad, 2017).
Goal and Purpose
The code aims to prevent cruelty, minimize suffering, and promote ethical values in research
by advocating for appropriate methodologies and strict oversight. It underscores the
commitment to humane treatment in scientific studies while ensuring the reliability and
credibility of research findings. These efforts advance scientific knowledge while respecting
the welfare of research subjects.
The main goal of the code is to regulate and oversee the ethical treatment of living creatures
in scientific research. It seeks to prevent unnecessary suffering, uphold moral principles, and
maintain the integrity of scientific endeavors (Alahmad, 2017).
Impact on Health
This regulation significantly benefits health advancements in Saudi Arabia by promoting
ethical research practices. It protects animals from unnecessary harm while ensuring that
research contributes meaningfully to fields such as medicine and biology. Compliance with
the code is often required for healthcare facilities to achieve accreditation from international
bodies (Alahmad, 2017).
Concerns
Enforcement of the code can be challenging, particularly in diverse research environments.
Healthcare institutions may face difficulties in implementing these ethical guidelines due to
limited resources, lack of expertise in animal care, and the need for ongoing monitoring to
ensure compliance (Alahmad, 2017). Achieving an effective balance between scientific
progress and animal welfare remains essential for the successful implementation of this
regulation.
The Private Health Institutions Law
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Code and Section
The Private Health Institutions Law (PHI Law) was enacted through Royal Decree No. M/40
on 3/11/1423H (6 January 2003G). It serves as the principal legislation governing private
healthcare providers in Saudi Arabia, falling under the broader category of healthcare and
medical regulations.
Goal and Purpose
The PHI Law aims to regulate and oversee private healthcare institutions in the Kingdom
(AS&H Law Firm, 2017). It establishes guidelines, standards, and recommendations to
ensure the delivery of high-quality healthcare services while safeguarding patient well-being.
The law also promotes the growth and development of the private healthcare sector.
Impact on Health
This law has positively influenced health outcomes by fostering transparency and
accountability within the private healthcare sector. By setting clear regulations, it has
improved the quality of services provided by private institutions, enhancing patient trust and
satisfaction (AS&H Law Firm, 2017). Additionally, the law encourages innovation and
investment, leading to expanded medical services and improved access to care for the
population.
Concerns
Ensuring compliance with the law and its effective enforcement poses challenges for private
healthcare institutions. Striking a balance between regulation and supporting the sector’s
growth is essential (AS&H Law Firm, 2017). Addressing disparities in healthcare access
between public and private sectors is also critical to achieving equitable healthcare for all
Saudi citizens.
Conclusion
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The Anti-Smoking Law, the Research Ethics Code on Living Creatures, and the Private
Health Institutions Law serve as foundational pillars of Saudi Arabia’s healthcare system.
Together, they contribute to a more ethical, regulated, and health-focused environment. These
laws reflect Saudi Arabia’s commitment to improving the well-being of its population and
ensuring that healthcare services meet the highest standards of quality and ethics. As the
nation continues to advance, these legal frameworks will play a vital role in shaping its
healthcare landscape.
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References
AS&H. (2017). INVESTING IN PRIVATE HEALTHCARE INSTITUTIONS AND
PHARMACEUTICAL ESTABLISHMENTS IN SAUDI ARABIA.
-Healthcare_Briefing_003.pdf
Alahmad, G. (2017). The Saudi law of ethics of research on living creatures and its
implementing regulations. Developing world bioethics, 17(2), 63-69.
AlJishi, H., Kusuma, D., AlQurashi, A., AlFaiz, A., AlSaad, A., & Aljishi, M. (2022).
Compliance with tobacco control policy and visibility of cigarette retailers around
educational facilities in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Frontiers in Public Health, 10,
713460.
Young, Y., Alharthy, A., & Hosler, A. S. (2021). Transformation of Saudi Arabia’s health
system and its impact on population health: what can the USA learn?. Saudi Journal
of Health Systems Research, 1(3), 93-102.
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