Description
RAHAF ALAHMADI
Implementation of the electronic health record
COLLAPSE
The implementation of information technology in the health care system is a must.
Hence, medical systems have undergone several changes, including the transition of paperbased medical records to electronic medical records (EMRs). The EMRs are legal records
that consist of data concerning patients, such as information about medical history,
management plans, and patient reviews. this EMR data is important for epidemiological
studies, clinical trials, drug safety surveillance, and disease registries.(AlSadrah, 2020)
importance of leadership in the implementation of the electronic health record
Leadership is one of the main factors in bringing about positive change in an
organization. Effective leaders have the ability to influence or change the values, beliefs,
behaviour and attitudes of employees , steering them towards achieving the goals of the
organization . Alharbi identified high organizational readiness to implement change as one of
the main factors determining efficient and effective implementation of changes in the context
of the National Transformation Programme and Vision 2030 (Alharbi, 2018) and
recommended developing leadership talent to motivate the workforce to bring about the
changes (Al Khashan et al., 2021)
Several authors note the important role that managers play in EHR implementation.
Whereas some authors refer to supportive leadership , others emphasize that strong and active
management involvement is needed . Strong leadership is relevant as it effectively
counterbalances the physicians’ medical dominance. For instance, Researcher observe that
physicians’ medical dominance and the status and autonomy of other health professionals
hinder collaboration and teamwork, and that this complicates EHR implementation. And
acknowledge this aspect and argue for strong leadership in order to deal with the otherwise
dominant physicians. They also claim that leaders have to set an example and use the system
themselves. At the same time, it is motivating that the implementation is managed by leaders
who are recognized by the medical staff, for instance by head nurses and physicians or by
former physicians and nurses (Boonstra et al., 2014)
The role of electronic health record in healthcare organization in KSA meeting business
and clinical intelligence
The positive impact of EHRs was noticed almost immediately in the field of primary
healthcare . It has been suggested that implementing EHRs will enhance the accessibility and
the process of distribution of health records among authorized users . In addition, EHRs can
improve the economic and administrative abilities of all healthcare institutions and, also,
directly influence the quality of care provided to patients Despite the positive impact of
EHRs,(Alzghaibi, 2023)
Electronic Health Records (EHRs) are moderately effective in enhancing health care
outcomes. It can moderately improve health care respectively through data liquidity, support
team-based care, quality of patient care, patient engagement, and workload. EHRs support
health practitioners to enhance data retrieval and access, help coordinate patient care,
improve patient safety and medication errors, increase compliance with medications and
treatments, and promote clinical process efficiency. With EHRs implementation, health
practitioners are challenged with facilitating structured communication and preventing
probable security breaches. Contributing to effectiveness of EHRs implementation are the
computer literacy of health practitioners and the reduced time spend on computers compared
to paper-based systems. Age, place of work, and years of experience with the use of EHRs
are critical indicators of effectiveness. Older health practitioners with less experience in EHR
use and who work in rural areas have the most impact on EHR effectiveness.(Britiller, 2023)
Based on the results, EHRs can ensure clinical process efficiency.(Alzghaibi &
Hutchings, 2022) revealed that the benefits such as data accessibility, time savings, cost
reduction and improved productivity were the things that end users liked about the EHRs.
End users of EHRs gave positive feedback about data accessibility, accuracy, improved
productivity and time savings as a result of the system. (Reeves et al., 2020) proposed that
EHRs is a useful tool to enable rapid deployment of standardized processes and served as an
essential tool in supporting the clinical needs of a health system.(Amponin & Britiller, 2023)
References
Al Khashan, H., Abogazalah, F., Alomary, S., Nahhas, M., Alwadey, A., Al-Khudhair, B.,
Alamri, F., Aleisa, N., Mahmoud, N., & Hassanein, M. (2021). Primary health care reform in
Saudi Arabia: Progress, challenges and prospects. Eastern Mediterranean Health
Journal, 27(10), 1016–1026.
Alharbi, M. F. (2018). An analysis of the Saudi health-care system’s readiness to change in
the context of the Saudi National Health-care Plan in Vision 2030. International Journal of
Health Sciences, 12(3), 83–87.
AlSadrah, S. A. (2020). Electronic medical records and health care promotion in Saudi
Arabia. Saudi Medical Journal, 41(6), 583–589.
Alzghaibi, H. A. (2023). An examination of large-scale electronic health records
implementation in Primary Healthcare Centers in Saudi Arabia: A qualitative
study. Frontiers in Public Health, 11, 1121327.
Alzghaibi, H. A., & Hutchings, H. A. (2022). Exploring facilitators of the implementation of
electronic health records in Saudi Arabia. BMC Medical Informatics and Decision
Making, 22(1), 321.
Amponin, A. M., & Britiller, M. C. (2023). Electronic Health Records (EHRs): Effectiveness
to Health Care Outcomes and Challenges of Health Practitioners in Saudi Arabia. Saudi
Journal of Nursing and Health Care, 6(04), 123–135.
Boonstra, A., Versluis, A., & Vos, J. F. J. (2014). Implementing electronic health records in
hospitals: A systematic literature review. BMC Health Services Research, 14, 370.
Britiller, M. (2023). Electronic Health Records (EHRs): Effectiveness to Health Care
Outcomes and Challenges of Health Practitioners in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Journal of
Nursing and Health Care.
Health_Care_Outcomes_and_Challenges_of_Health_Practitioners_in_Saudi_Arabia
Reeves, J. J., Hollandsworth, H. M., Torriani, F. J., Taplitz, R., Abeles, S., Tai-Seale, M.,
Millen, M., Clay, B. J., & Longhurst, C. A. (2020). Rapid response to COVID-19: Health
informatics support for outbreak management in an academic health system. Journal of the
American Medical Informatics Association, 27(6), 853–859.
6 days ago
HANAN AL HABIB
electronic health record
COLLAPSE
This discussion aims at analyzing the focus that is being observed in the
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and the changes that it is experiencing in the
healthcare sector, all with the use of technology and for the purpose of achieving
Vision 2030. This change process is largely based on the use of electronic health
records or EHRs mostly because their implementation is a challenging project,
which needs robust leadership to facilitate overcoming numerous challenges and
ensure that the resulting project meets the needs of end-users to the maximum
extent. The part that leadership plays in KSA for improving the processes of
EHRs’ successful execution will be discussed in this article with focus on their
direction to meet the functions of end users and the achievement of business and
clinical intelligence objectives of an organization.
Understanding the Importance of End-User Needs
EHRs are not just software applications; rather they represent a shift in the
management and delivery of care. EHRs are the main working record of patient’s
information accessible to doctors, nurses, pharmacists, administrators, and other
working healthcare employees, for getting patient data, documenting care episodes,
sharing information with other employees and decision making. However, meeting
the end users’ functional needs is another segment of the EHR adoption process
that should not be neglected. The problems such as frustration, decreased
productivity, and resistance to change might stem from using suboptimal, difficult
to manage, or poorly integrated into current processes systems (Graetz et al. ,
2022). This might compromise more the quality of patient care and even their
safety as well as defeating the possible advantages that can be derived from EHRs.
Leadership: The Guiding Force in EHR Implementation
The management of difficulties involved with EHR implementation and
ensuring that it is satisfactory to the end-users call for leadership. In this regard,
everyone ranging from the organization’s managers, IT administrators, clinical
advocates, as well as executives are deemed leaders. The intention of the adoption
reflects the dynamics of techniques, vision, and application strategies that must be
foreseen and coordinated (Fatima et al. , 2020).
Establishing a Clear Vision and Strategic Roadmap:
Any implementation of an EHR must be preceded by a clear identification
by leaders of what specific improvements are to be realised as far as end users and
the organisation is concerned. This concept must be transformed into a proper
strategic initiative that includes timeframes, resources necessary for its
implementation, and deadlines. This roadmap helps to make sure that all the
stakeholders understand what is to be achieved, the part they are supposed to play,
and the anticipated results (Kumar et al. , 2018). Thus, it is crucial for everyone in
the organization to know the vision, as well as the general strategy for the future.
Cultivating a Culture of Collaboration and Communication
During the implementation phase, there is strong guidance in relation to the
leadership to ensure the stakeholders’ cooperation. End user feedback forums,
training sessions, and other specific channels that allow the end users to enunciate
problems, give suggestions, and get updates on the progress of the system should
be Communication among leaders’ top priorities (Harris et al., 2021). This
participatory method engages the end users and makes them feel that it is their
project which reduces their resistance to change.
Prioritizing End-User Training and Support
One of the best practices that have been recommended is that more
resources need to be put into the training of the end users of the EHRs to ensure
that they are utilized optimally. There ought to be provisions for special courses
that equip the users with the confidence to use the system optimally and acquire
the best out of it by the executives. Also, sustained support in the form of
specialized help desks, online support, and through the networks of super-users is
required to ensure that the end users are able to seek help in case they experience
problems (Ratwani et al. , 2019). It is an indication of ever ending support for the
product and it proves the willingness to keep the customers happy and to ensure
that Dycoms’ new system merges with their business processes.
Championing User-Centered Design and Customization:
EHR systems must ensure that the end-user is captured while designing the
EHR systems. Leaders are vital when it comes to the dissemination of usercentered design ideas during the time of system selection and implementation.
Particular preference should be given to systems which can be operated intuitively,
whose procedures may have a high degree of flexibility, and the functional abilities
of which will match special demands put by various user categories. Continuing
feedback is another category that contains surveys and user groups, which are vital
for further system development and its compliance with the users’ requirements
(Shepherd et al. , 2020).
The Impact of Successful EHR Implementation on Business and Clinical Intelligence in
KSA
Effective management and a focus on the requirements of end users are
crucial when it comes to implementing EHR beyond simple paper records’
electronic duplication. It provides the KSA healthcare organizations a sound base
for the enhancement of health and service delivery information.
Improved Business Intelligence
If EHRs are implemented correctly, the role of business intelligence within
healthcare organizations may increase dramatically. Some of the benefits are a
reduction in the overall costs, effective utilisation of resources, improvement in the
operations and effectiveness in task execution due to application of process
engineering. Moreover, EHRs generate a huge amount of information that can help
to analyze the organizations’ performance in general, effective distribution of
resources, and direct strategic management (Alzahrani et al. , 2023). Also, the
documentation done within the EHRs at the right time and with accuracy is helpful
in revenue cycle management, reduces errors and allows for proper claims
processing (Alotaibi & Federico, 2023).
Advanced Clinical Intelligence
It is worth to notice that optimally implemented EHR systems not only
contribute to the improvement of the overall Clinical Intelligence but also BI.
EHRs incorporated into managing the care of patients, electronic help by making
patient information, prescription advice, and clinical reference immediately
available to physicians. This reduces rate of genomical errors in medical practices
(Shepherd et al., 2020). Patient care is enhanced with fewer replication instances
when the patient’s data can be prominently conveyed to the different sections and
with outside health providers who have been accorded approval. Perhaps one of the
ways in which EHR data analysis can enhance the delivery of care is being able to
monitor the frequency of a certain illness, the pattern in which it is spreading or the
patients who need a specific remedy for their illnesses in an attempt to deliver a
more preventive care.
Conclusion
EHR adoption must be done successfully if KSA’s Vision 2030 is to meet its
ambitious healthcare goals. Because it offers strategic direction and fights for the
needs of end users, leadership is crucial to this process. If KSA’s leaders focus user
support and training, foster a collaborative culture, and fight for user-centered
design, EHR installations may deliver on the promises of improved patient care,
increased operational efficiency, and a more data-driven healthcare system.
References
Alotaibi, Y., & Federico, C. (2023). Electronic Health Records and Healthcare Costs: A
Scoping Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health,
20(2), 1348.
Alzahrani, N., Alshahrani, S., Aldosari, B., Al-Eisa, A., & Alanazi, T. (2023). The Impact of
Implementing Electronic Health Records Systems on Healthcare Quality: A
Systematic Review. Healthcare, 11(3), 384.
Fatima, S. S., Al Mahmud, H., & Ahmed, S. (2020). Examining the readiness of public
hospitals for successful implementation of an Electronic Health Record (EHR) system
in Bangladesh. International journal of health care quality assurance, 33(6), 808-822.
Graetz, K. L., Smith, M. V., & Howell, M. D. (2022). Electronic health record usability
problems and potential contributions to clinician burnout. JAMA, 328(16), 1576-1578.
Harris, J., McQueen, L., & Armitage, G. (2021). Leading change: Implementing an electronic
health record system. Nursing Management, 28(1), 30-36.
Kumar, R., Kaur, H., & Haleem, A. (2018). Understanding the critical success factors for
effective implementation of electronic health records: A systematic review.
International journal of medical informatics, 112, 88-103.
Ratwani, R. M., Town, R. J., & Singh, H. (2019). Electronic health record usability: Principles
and practices for improving the user experience. JAMA, 321(12), 1142-1150.
12 hours ago
BEDOUR ALOTAIBI
Disease Surveillance on a Non-Communicable Disease in the Kingdom
COLLAPSE
Introduction
Non-communicable diseases NCDs are one of the major public health problems in the world
as well as in Saudi Arabia. Such diseases include cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus,
and respiratory conditions. This is expected to increase with the aging population and hence
further increase the prevalence of these diseases and related healthcare costs (Alqunaibet et
al., 2021). Interventions and developments to prevent NCDs are, therefore, necessary in
reducing current and future treatment costs. They will account for objectives in the
achievement of Saudi Arabia’s major goals under Vision 2030, especially concerning
increasing life expectancy. The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Saudi Food
and Drug Authority (SFDA) have implemented guidelines, strategies, and programs that are
linked the WHO’s recommended practices to achieve the Saudi Vision 2030 and mitigate
NCDs (Hazazi & Wilson, 2022). However, monitoring NCDs in Saudi Arabia is challenging
and that should be addressed for improved prevention and management strategies. These
challenges include incomplete data reporting, limited integration of health information
systems, and the necessity for improved collaboration across healthcare sectors.
Prevalent non-communicable disease:
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is an increasingly common non-communicable disease that poses a
burden on both the Saudi population health and economy. This high prevalence is associated
with obesity cases as well as major changes in lifestyle (Alwadeai & Alhammad, 2023). The
situation has reached dangerous levels, making it hard for Saudi population to maintain good
health or have access to quality healthcare. Diabetes surveillance provides information about
the problem and risk factors of this disease. Several studies underscore the importance of
effective surveillance strategies for diabetes in Saudi Arabia. They include integrating
primary care, health records systems and population-based registries that set out to collect
data on aspects like prevalence of the disease, its risk factors, challenges associated with it
and diagnostic options available.
Challenges to disease surveillance:
Surveillance of NCDs in Saudi Arabia faces several challenges. Key issues include
ineffective program management, inadequate community awareness, and insufficiency in
structured screening programs (Hazazi & Wilson, 2022). Surveillance activities comprise
preparation, support, training, coordination of research, communication of health factors,
developing clinical practice policies, and use of resources for prevention and management.
However, the program structure in this respect is mostly not well-defined. This is also
associated to the lack of structured screening programs. The community is limitedly engaged
or informed regarding data collection and surveillance practice, which limits outreach and
potential information relevant for study.
Data currently collected:
A comprehensive database has been adopted to evaluate NCD programs and enhance the
monitoring and management of NCDs. This database includes administrative data,
demographic information, patient medical histories, health risks, health conditions, health
management practices, and result data (Hazazi & Wilson, 2022). It is developed through
mechanisms that connect healthcare data systems, such as the surveillance unit and health
information systems. However, the data that is perceived challenging to collect include the
risk factors and social variables. This is associated to the challenges of valuing exercise
denominators and making sure there is representativeness of sentinel sites.
Current and future trends from surveillance data:
Saudi Arabia continually monitors its implemented NCD policies and programs to assess
their efficiency. The country also establishes key performance indicators, as outlined in the
National Executive Plan for NCDs, and reports the results yearly to the NCD Committee to
enhance accountability (United Nations Development Programme). For example, the WHO
NCD Progress Monitor 2020 reported that the Kingdom had successfully implemented
salt/sodium guidelines. The Strategy of Regulating Healthy Food that the SFDA instituted in
2018, checks day-to-day calorie consumption by using a national nutrition survey that
assesses the population’s nutritional status. This shows that Saudi Arabia is currently
employing effective surveillance measures and addressing NCDs such as diabetes. It also
suggests that in the future, more effective policy approaches and innovative solutions could
be implemented to increase the utilization of existing services and encourage healthy
behavior.
Populations most impacted:
Results from research indicate that middle-aged Saudi Arabians are more probable to have
type-2 diabetes mellitus (Alwadeai & Alhammad, 2023). This can be due to the significant
connection between obesity prevalence and aging, which increases till around age 70.
Recently, a study found that obesity naturally tends to increase with age and the highest
prevalence associated with the condition was observed in individuals over 40. Menopausal
women of mostly those over 45 are also more likely to gain weight and are at high risk for
developing diabetes (Alwadeai & Alhammad, 2023).
Conclusion
Disease surveillance is vital to monitor and address the burden of NCDs in Saudi Arabia.
This is achieved through finding and tackling the challenges in surveillance, especially
concerning prevalent NCDs like diabetes. Based on these, policymakers and healthcare
providers can create evidence-based ways of reducing the burden of illness and enhancing
population health. Improving data quality and comprehensiveness, employing effective
integrated surveillance systems as well as promoting collaboration are crucial measures in
lessening the effect of non-communicable diseases on people’s lives in Saudi Arabia and
improving health outcomes.
References
Alqunaibet, A., Herbst, C. H., El-Saharty, S., & Algwizani, A. (Eds.).
(2021). Noncommunicable diseases in Saudi Arabia: toward effective
interventions for prevention. World Bank Publications.
Alwadeai, K. S., & Alhammad, S. A. (2023). Prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus and
related factors among the general adult population in Saudi Arabia between 2016–
2022: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the cross-sectional
studies. Medicine, 102(24), e34021.
Hazazi, A., & Wilson, A. (2022). Noncommunicable diseases and health system responses in
Saudi Arabia: focus on policies and strategies. A qualitative study. Health Research
Policy and Systems, 20(1), 63.
United Nations Development
Programme.
2 days ago
RAYYANAH ALMUHAYDIB
“Heart Stroke” as a Non-communicable Disease in KSA
COLLAPSE
“Heart Stroke” as a Non-communicable Disease in KSA
Non-communicable diseases are famous with the name of chronic diseases
and these are types of diseases which are not transmitted to each other (Riegelman&
Kirkwood, 2016). Heart stroke is the most alarming condition in the entire world and
in KSA the ratio of this disease has been increasing gradually and the reasons are
diabetes, dyslipidemia and hypertension. Recently a survey has been conducted from
the KKHC (King Khalid Hospital-Cardiac Center) located in the region of Hail,
KSA. This study shows that 1187 (92%) people face severe ischemic strokes, while
103 (8%) patients are the case of hemorrhagic stroke. Approximately 43.3% of
patients are detecting the issue of hypertension of which 48.2% are females and
39.8% are males and it shows that the issue of hypertension is more common in
females in KSA as compared to males. Dyslipidemia was indicated in 14.7% of
which 15% were females and 14.5% were males. In short, females are more affected
due to heart stroke in the Hail region of KSA (Ahmed et al., 2020).
Challenges to Disease Surveillance
Heart Stroke is becoming a challenge for the KSA and according to the WHO report this disease
is on second number that becomes cause of death. The decline in the heart stroke rate is reducing in
developed countries whereas in developing countries the rate of disease is going high and KSA is also
among those countries which are the rank of 23rd in tackling the situation of heart stroke. The people
of the Kingdom have less knowledge about the reasons for stroke and they are not taking the
medications properly which should improve their health condition. The Eastern Province of KSA is the
largest and most populated region of the country and the major hospitals of this province have
reported that people have limited awareness about the disease of heart stroke and the patients who
are dealing with this issue also the average knowledge. Now the hospitals of KSA have taken the
initiative and started delivering education programs on the topic of Causes of heart stroke (Zafar et
al., 2020).
Currently Data Collection
A recent survey was conducted in which 3456 people participated of which 56.4% were
females and 43.6% were males who were facing the seriousness of this disease. The participants in
the age group of 15 to 39 years are more aware of the impact of heart stroke while more than 40 years
have very little knowledge about it (Mubarak et al., 2021).
Difficulty in Data Collection
The people of KSA are unaware of the harmful impact of heart stroke and they are not taking
it seriously therefore it is very difficult to collect accurate data. Immediate treatment is necessary for
heart patients but this facility is very limited in the rural areas of the country so the accurate number
of patients is not calculated (Zafar et al., 2020).
Current and Future Trends of Disease in KSA
Currently, the collection of exact data of heart stroke patients in the KSA is the major problem
but the government has started working on it and trying to deliver complete access to healthcare
facilities. The terms of policies and measurement for the heart stroke patients are the top priority of
MOH and they are start transferring their system according to the healthcare transformation program
of Vision 2030. This program delivers free healthcare facilities in the entire country and collects the
data of patients through the help of a digital platform (Tash & Rasha Al-Bawardy, 2023).
Impact of Heart Stroke on the KSA Population
The ageing population of KSA has more risk of heart stroke and it is mostly related to women
who are already in the condition of hypertension and diabetes. Now the adults of the Kingdom have
a huge number of this disease and this is due to their less physical activity and changing lifestyle (Zafar
et al., 2020).
References
Ahmed, H. G., Alquwaiay, F. K., AlDhamadi, H. F., Alshammari, F. M. S.,
Alquwaiay, D. A. S., Alshammari, A., & Alsunitan, H. H. A. (2020, April
1). Stroke-associated comorbidities in Saudi Arabia. | International
Journal of Pharmaceutical Research & Allied Sciences | EBSCOhost.
Openurl.ebsco.com.
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Mubaraki, A. A., Alqahtani, A. S., Almalki, A. A., Almalki, A. H., Alamri, H. M.,
Aburass, M. K., & Althumali, Z. H. (2021). Public knowledge and awareness
of
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Arabia. Neurosciences, 26(4),
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339–345.
Riegelman, R., & Kirkwood, B. (2016). Public Health 101: Healthy People
Healthy
Populations (Includes One Health Chapter) (Essential Public
Health) (2nd ed.). Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Tash, A., & Rasha Al-Bawardy. (2023). Cardiovascular Disease in Saudi Arabia:
facts and the way forward. Journal of the Saudi Heart Association, 35(2),
148–162.
Zafar, A., Albakr, A. I., Shahid, R., Nazish, S., Aljaafari, D., Alkhamis, F. A.,
Aldajani, A. A., Msmar, A. H., & Khatri, I. A. (2020). Stroke literacy in the
population of the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia; immediate steps are
essential to bridge the gap. Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular
Diseases, 29(10),
105088.
1
[11:16 10/7/2024 ، ]م+966 55 305 0473: SUKAINAH ALFARKI
challenges of changes in technology and information systems
COLLAPSE
Introduction
We live in a new well-connected world, dominated by the internet. Health care is
recognized as an industry with a low acceptance of information technology. Only few
information technology (IT) systems, such as Electronic Health Records (EHRs), have been
widely accepted by the industry (Crisan & Mihaila, 2021)
In the past several decades, technological advances have opened new possibilities for
improving patient safety. Using technology to digitize healthcare processes has the potential
to increase standardization and efficiency of clinical workflows and to reduce errors and cost
across all healthcare settings.( Holmgren et al, 2023)
New Information Systems can be seen as innovations and viewed through the lens of
innovations theory. (Tatnall, 2009) Some clinical leaders face challenges in supporting staff
during technology and information system changes, including the learning curve, resistance
to change, workflow disruptions, interoperability challenges, and cybersecurity concerns. To
2
overcome these challenges, leaders must provide adequate training, manage change processes
effectively, and prioritize data security to protect sensitive patient information.
The challenges that clinical leaders face during technology and information system changes
in healthcare
The key challenges that clinical leaders face in supporting staff during technology and
information system changes in healthcare include:
The Learning Curve: Implementing new technologies requires extensive training and
education for staff, who often have busy schedules and limited time to learn new systems.
Clinical leaders must ensure adequate training is provided and that staff are comfortable
using the new technology to avoid errors.(Implementing New Technology in Healthcare: 3
Challenges | USC Online | USC EMHA Online, 2023)
Resistance to Change: Healthcare professionals can be resistant to adopting new
technologies, preferring to stick with familiar processes and workflows.(Fahl, 2024) Clinical
leaders must effectively communicate the benefits of the new technology and actively
manage the change process to overcome staff resistance. .(Fahl, 2024)
Workflow Disruptions: The introduction of new information systems can significantly disrupt
established clinical workflows and processes. (Frilund et al., 2023)Leaders must carefully
analyze how the technology will impact existing workflows and proactively address any
issues to minimize disruptions to patient care.(Gjellebæk et al., 2020)
3
Interoperability Challenges: Ensuring new technologies seamlessly integrate with existing
systems and data sources is critical, but can be technically complex. Leaders must work
closely with IT teams to address interoperability challenges and ensure data flows smoothly
between systems. (Gjellebæk et al., 2020)
Cybersecurity Concerns: The increased use of digital technologies heightens the risk of data
breaches and cyber attacks. Leaders must prioritize data security and put robust cybersecurity
measures in place to protect sensitive patient information. (Fahl, 2024)
Disruption to Established Workflows
One of the key challenges that clinical leaders face when implementing new technologies
and information systems is the disruption to established workflows and processes within the
healthcare setting. This can have significant impacts on staff productivity, patient care, and
overall organizational efficiency.
Issues Regarding Workflows and Processes
Incompatibility with Existing Processes: New technologies may not align well with the
existing workflows and processes that staff have become accustomed to. This can lead to
confusion, frustration, and resistance from staff who are required to adapt their established
ways of working.(Experience, n.d.)
Increased Time and Effort: Integrating new technologies into existing workflows often
requires additional time and effort from staff, as they learn new systems and adjust their
4
processes accordingly. This can lead to decreased productivity and burnout. (Experience,
n.d.)
Fragmentation of Information: When new technologies are not properly integrated with
existing systems, it can result in the fragmentation of patient data and information across
multiple platforms. This can hinder clinical decision-making and compromise patient
care.(Overcoming the Challenges of Workflow Management, 2024)
Lack of Standardization: The introduction of new technologies can lead to inconsistencies in
how staff members approach their work, as they may develop their own unique workarounds
or adaptations to the new systems. This can undermine standardization and quality of care.
(Overcoming the Challenges of Workflow Management, 2024)
Communication Breakdowns: Poor communication channels or breakdowns in
communication can result in misunderstandings, delays, and errors in workflow execution.
This can be particularly problematic when staff are not informed about changes or are unclear
about their roles and responsibilities. (Overcoming the Challenges of Workflow
Management, 2024)
Tech Limitations: Outdated or inadequate technology infrastructure can impede workflow
management, restricting the organization’s ability to adapt to changing business needs. This
can lead to inefficiencies and decreased productivity. (Overcoming the Challenges of
Workflow Management, 2024)
Recommendations to Resolve Workflow Disruptions
Conduct Comprehensive Workflow Analyses: Before implementing new technologies,
clinical leaders should thoroughly analyze existing workflows and processes to identify
5
potential areas of conflict or disruption. This will help inform the design and implementation
of the new systems. (Overcoming the Challenges of Workflow Management, 2024)
Involve Staff in the Design Process: Engage frontline staff in the design and development of
new technologies and workflows. This will ensure that the solutions are tailored to the needs
of the users and minimize disruptions to established ways of working. (Overcoming the
Challenges of Workflow Management, 2024)
Provide Comprehensive Training and Support: Offer extensive training and ongoing support
to staff to ensure they are comfortable and proficient in using the new technologies. This
should include hands-on training, job aids, and dedicated support resources. (Overcoming the
Challenges of Workflow Management, 2024)
Implement Gradual, Phased Rollouts: Consider a phased approach to the implementation of
new technologies, rather than a sudden, organization-wide change. This will allow staff to
adapt to the new systems and workflows in a more manageable and less disruptive manner.
(Overcoming the Challenges of Workflow Management, 2024)
Foster a Culture of Continuous Improvement: Encourage a culture of ongoing feedback and
process refinement, where staff are empowered to identify and address any workflow issues
that arise during the implementation of new technologies. (Overcoming the Challenges of
Workflow Management, 2024)
By proactively addressing the disruptions to established workflows and processes, clinical
leaders can help ensure the successful adoption of new technologies and information systems
within their healthcare settings, while minimizing the impact on staff productivity and patient
care.
6
References
Crisan, E. L., & Mihaila, A. (2021). Health-care information systems adoption – a review of
management practices. Vilakshan – XIMB Journal of Management, 20(1), 130–139.
Experience, W. L. in R.-B. U. (n.d.). Disruptive Workflow Design. Nielsen Norman Group.
Fahl, D. T. (2024, March 8). 9 Biggest Leadership Challenges in Healthcare. DocResponse |
Patient Engagement Software.
Frilund, M., Fagerstrøm, L., & Vasset, F. (2023). The challenges of change processes for
nurse leaders—A qualitative study of long‐term leaders’ experiences over 25 years. Nursing
Open, 10(8), 5423–5432.
Gjellebæk, C., Svensson, A., Bjørkquist, C., Fladeby, N., & Grundén, K. (2020).
Management challenges for future digitalization of healthcare services. Futures, 124, 102636.
7
Holmgren Jay, Susan McBride,Bryan Gale, Sarah Mossburg . (2023). Technology as a Tool
for Improving Patient Safety.
Implementing New Technology in Healthcare: 3 Challenges | USC Online | USC EMHA
Online. (2023).
Overcoming the challenges of workflow management. (2024).
Tatnall, A. (2009). Information Systems, Technology Adoption and Innovation Translation.
IJANTTI, 1, 59–74.
Technology as a Tool for Improving Patient Safety. (2023).
[11:16 10/7/2024 ، ]م+966 55 305 0473: RAYYANAH ALMUHAYDIB
Challenges encountered by healthcare leaders
COLLAPSE
With the integration of Technology in every sector under Industrial Revolution 4.0, the
healthcare sector also got any digital tools and processes in order to operate effectively. The
health information system is one of these digitalization which has improved the management
8
practices in the healthcare sector. This is the advancement of information systems and
integration of information systems in the healthcare sector, which improves the clinical
benefits through Technological support (Balgrosky, 2019).
Challenges encountered by healthcare leaders
During the implementation of digital technology, the leaders face many challenges, which are
from the employees. For example, the resistance to change from the employees is a major
challenge faced by the clinical leaders. The resistance to change is very common during
digital shifts and transformations. High change resistance is observed in the employees due to
fear of adaptation, poor skills and knowledge, lack of clarity in the roles, workload burden,
etc. (McGhin et al., 2019).
Moreover, the issues related to data privacy and security are also liable during digital
transformations, which are faced by clinical leaders. Clinical leaders ensure their staff to
integrate proper security methods and protocols in order to secure the rights of the users.
Moreover, clinical leaders observe workflow destruction due to the integration of digital
technology in the healthcare sector; it increases the workload and decreases productivity and
deficiency for an initial period of time, which increases delays (Gupta et al., 2019).
Issues in workflows and processes
Workflow is the series of activities which are performed in a way to complete a task. The
integration of digital technology and health information systems in the healthcare setting is a
workflow which is very specific through each and every step in order to ensure proper
utilization of resources to create betterment in the healthcare organisations; the issues related
to the workflow in healthcare organisations is the poor allocation of resources and poor
planning (McGhin et al., 2019).
9
The inefficiency is related to the resource such as the financial resource allocation provide
difficulty in working and delays. the human resource investment in the project is also critical
to maintaining proper workflows; otherwise, it leads towards destructions. The workflow
insufficiencies have been noticed in data entry errors, as during this transformation, the data
is shifted from traditional systems to digital systems. It produces errors in data entry and
affects the accuracy of the information of the patients. Moreover, the issues related to
technology integration and skills (McGhin et al., 2019).
Recommendations
To resolve the above measure challenges, it is recommended that the organization should
introduce proper training and development for integrating any technology as it is needed to
improve the optimization of technology. Moreover, proper workflow analysis is needed to
adapt to the new technology and eliminate any wrong steps. Moreover, property management
is needed to guide the employees during this management of organizational change.
Moreover, data quality assurance to provide proper accuracy of the data, as cyber security
measures are needed to protect the data through best practices (Gupta et al., 2019).
These technological advancements promote efficiency paved the way for improved care in
the health sector. In order to acknowledge this quality improvement in the healthcare sector,
the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia sectors has utilized different methods, such as statistical tools,
project management considerations, research, etc., used for technology in the quality
improvement processes to improve healthcare workflow (McGhin et al., 2019).
Reference
Balgrosky, J. A. (2019). Understanding Health Information Systems for the Health
Professions. Jones & Bartlett Learning.
10
Gupta, R., Tanwar, S., Tyagi, S., & Kumar, N. (2019). Tactile-Internet-Based Telesurgery
System for Healthcare 4.0: An Architecture, Research Challenges, and Future Directions.
IEEE Network, 33(6), 22–29.
McGhin, T., Choo, K.-K. R., Liu, C. Z., & He, D. (2019). Blockchain in healthcare
applications: Research challenges and opportunities. Journal of Network and Computer
Applications, 135, 62–75.
[11:17 10/7/2024 ، ]م+966 55 305 0473: 570 healthcare information systems
_____
[11:18 10/7/2024 ، ]م+966 55 305 0473: REEM ALQAHTANI
The Challenges of Diabetes Surveillance in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
COLLAPSE
The Challenges of Diabetes Surveillance in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Diabetes mellitus is one of the non-communicable diseases that is prevalent in the Kingdom
of Saudi Arabia. In 2021. Currently, there are around 7 million people with type 1 and type 2
diabetes and about 3 million are pre-diabetic in the kingdom (Al Slamah et al., 2020).
According to Al Slamah et al. (2020), the Saudi Health Interview Survey (SHIS) shows that
this high rate of diabetes incidence could be due to factors like urbanization, inactive
sedentary lifestyles, and dietary changes toward high-calorie, carbohydrate-rich meals.
Overall, this high prevalence is a significant threat to public health.
11
Saudi Arabia faces many challenges in diabetes management, especially in data collection
and data analysis. One main challenge facing data collection is the issue of underreporting
(Abusalah et al., 2023). Most people facing less severe symptoms of diabetes often end up
not reporting. Others in marginalized areas also fail to report to medical centers hence
resulting in an underestimated conclusions and assumptions of the actual prevalence of
diabetes. Secondly, the differences in data collection techniques used by various healthcare
centers across the kingdom is also another issue (Abusalah et al., 2023). It is important to
create public health plans, specific data collection patterns, and policies that effectively battle
diabetes. Lastly, another critical challenge facing the treatment of diabetes mellitus is the fact
that the disease has a complex epidemiological landscape (Abusalah et al., 2023). Many
people can remain asymptomatic hence underreport their cases.
The data that is most challenging to get is that of the cases of diabetes that are mild or
asymptomatic. Often mild and asymptomatic cases data can be difficult to find and they
evade detection in routine healthcare settings. Unlike symptomatic cases that force
individuals to seek medical attention, mild or asymptomatic diabetes can remain undiagnosed
for a longer.
Despite the various challenges facing diabetes data surveillance, this process provides useful
insights about the current and future trends of the disease within KSA. Surveillance data
provides more information about the prevalence rates and it highlights possible future health
trends in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (Abusalah et al., 2023). Based on surveillance data,
there is urgent need of creating focused interventions that create more awareness of the
disease, encourage healthier lifestyles and improve diabetes identification and management.
12
In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the populations that is most at risk of getting diabetes are
the urban residents, the elderly, and the aging population (Abusalah et al., 2023). Urban areas
usually experience higher rates of diabetes due to sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy dietary
habits, and increased stress levels. The elderly (60 years and above) often face a higher risk
of developing diabetes due to age-related factors such as decreased insulin sensitivity and
overall health challenges (Abusalah et al., 2023). The aging population, people between 4059 years, also face high prevalence rates of getting diabetes mainly due to lifestyle factors
prevalent in urban settings. Priority should be given to these populations when it comes to
creating awareness and creating interventions.
References
Abusalah, M. A. H., Albaker, W., Al-Bsheish, M., Alsyouf, A., Al-Mugheed, K., Issa, M. R.,
& Alumran, A. (2023). Prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus in the general population of
Saudi Arabia, 2000–2020: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.
Saudi Journal of Medicine & Medical Sciences, 11(1), 110.
tus_in_the.1.aspx
Al Slamah, T., Nicholl, B. I., Alslail, F. Y., Harris, L., Kinnear, D., & Melville, C. A. (2020).
Correlates of type 2 diabetes and glycaemic control in adults in Saudi Arabia a secondary
13
data analysis of the Saudi health interview survey. BMC Public Health, 20, 1-13.
تم:] خدمات طالب10/7/2024 ، م11:18[
[11:18 10/7/2024 ، ]م+966 55 305 0473: MALAK ALDURAYHIM
Non-communicable disease
COLLAPSE
The non-communicable disease in the KSA is diabetes which has caused serious problems for
the health care ministry. Young people in KSA are subject to overweight and obesity which
lead them to be diabetic in the long run. The same non-communicable disease led people to
heart attacks and also generated sufficient breathing issues. Surveillance itself is also
challenging for such diabetic patients because the age group that is being involved is not
mostly aware of the disease. Life lifestyle and eating habits of people in KSA are very much
processed food which has led to such issues in the first place (Riegelman & Kirkwood, 2016).
Data collecting on diabetes is limited because it is unknown if a person’s lifestyle or food
choices have an impact on their condition. In Saudi Arabia, healthcare facilities, particularly
public health institutes, are not as developed as they should be to support this kind of data
collection. Because the younger population does not take non-communicable diseases
seriously, there is a lack of management and controlling strategies. Young people in Saudi
Arabia actively combat the difficulties and conditions brought on by diabetes symptoms.
Another problem that prevents appropriate data collection on diabetes and presents obstacles
is a lack of awareness (Al Dawish & Robert, 2021).
14
The information collected about diabetics highlights the choices that people are making about
their lifestyles. In addition, the type of diabetes to which an individual is susceptible is also
recognized, allowing for the consideration of treatment and preventive measures. Due to the
high cost of diabetes treatment and the availability of internationally manufactured insulin for
better control, the Ministry of Health is also having trouble keeping track of the costs
associated with caring for diabetic patients. The fact that the younger generation in Saudi
Arabia is exposed to noncommunicable diseases and that most people are unaware of this is a
concerning scenario (Al Dawish & Robert, 2021).
Currently, the diabetic disease in the KSA is not reported to full scale which means
categorical classification of such non-communicable diseases is difficult in which gender, age
and social group of people are not known. Despite Saudi Arabia’s vision 2030 roadmap, there
is still a lot to be changed such as policy making and predefining regulations for the data
collection on diabetics. Healthcare facilities also do not have the data centers to arrange and
prevent the future of diabetes. The Saudi government has started to develop social protection
programs in which people would be made aware of lifestyle and eating habits (Alshareef et
al., 2019)
It is now that KSA can develop their vision for 2030 to be successful in terms of healthcare
and preventive noncommunicable disease policies. People of KSA need to be encouraged to
adopt more healthy lifestyles so that such problems do not appear the financial burden on
KSA to support financially on diabetics is also high. Challenging such aspects would always
prevent people from having any diabetes, obesity and overweight problems. Since the KSA
15
population is young it is important to suggest that children of younger age in school should be
taught about the lifestyle and eating habits (Alshareef et al., 2019).
References
Al Dawish, M. A., & Robert, A. A. (2021). Diabetes Mellitus in Saudi Arabia. Handbook of
Healthcare in the Arab World, 1083–1100.
Alshareef, S., Aldayel, A., AlKhathlan, M., Alduaij, K., Alshareef, F., Al-Harthi, M.,
Aldayel, A., Shadid, A., & Dahmash, A. (2019). Diabetic patients in Saudi Arabia. The
evaluation of glycemic control measures based on emergency department utilization and the
percentages of adherence to the recommended follow-ups for microvascular complications.
Saudi Medical Journal, 40(3), 271–276.
Riegelman, R., & Kirkwood, B. (2016). Public Health 101: Healthy People Healthy
Populations (Includes One Health Chapter) (Essential Public Health) (2nd ed.). Jones &
Bartlett Learning.
[11:18 10/7/2024 ، ]م+966 55 305 0473: 574 public health
Overcoming Technological Challenges: Strategies for Clinical Leaders in Healthcare
In the rapidly evolving landscape of healthcare, the adoption of new technologies and
information systems is essential for improving patient care, enhancing operational
efficiency, and staying competitive. However, clinical leaders often face significant
challenges as they support their staff through these transitions. This discussion
explores the key obstacles encountered during the implementation of new
technological solutions and provides practical recommendations for addressing
workflow disruptions, resistance to change, training needs, system integration,
cybersecurity concerns, and the necessity for ongoing support (Zajac et al., 2021). By
understanding and effectively managing these challenges, clinical leaders can
facilitate smoother transitions, optimize processes, and ensure that their teams are
well-equipped to leverage new technologies for better healthcare delivery
(Wisniewski & Torous, 2020).
Resistance to Change
One of the primary challenges clinical leaders face when introducing new technologies or
information systems is resistance to change among staff members. This resistance
often stems from fear of the unknown, comfort with established processes, or doubts
about their ability to adapt to new systems. Resistance can significantly hinder the
implementation process and affect overall efficiency (Kelly et al., 2019). To mitigate
this, clinical leaders must adopt a proactive approach. Clear communication about the
benefits and long-term advantages of the new systems is crucial. Additionally,
involving staff in the decision-making process can foster a sense of ownership and
reduce apprehension (Kelly et al., 2019). Providing comprehensive training and
support further ensures that staff members feel confident and prepared to embrace the
changes.
Training and Skill Development
The introduction of new technologies or information systems necessitates a shift in skill sets
and workflows, requiring substantial training and development for staff members.
Effective implementation relies heavily on the proficiency and comfort levels of the
users with the new systems (Oleksa-Marewska & Tokar, 2022). Clinical leaders
should therefore allocate adequate time and resources to develop robust training
programs. These programs should include hands-on practice sessions that allow staff
to familiarize themselves with the technology in a controlled environment
(Wisniewski & Torous, 2020). Continuous learning opportunities and refresher
courses can also help maintain high levels of competency and confidence among staff.
Workflow Disruptions: Implementing new technologies or systems can disrupt established
workflows, leading to confusion, delays, and potential errors. Such disruptions can
affect the quality of patient care and the overall efficiency of healthcare delivery. To
address these challenges, clinical leaders should engage with staff to thoroughly map
out current workflows. This collaborative effort helps identify potential bottlenecks
and areas of concern. By redesigning processes to optimize efficiency and minimize
disruptions, leaders can ensure a smoother transition (Oleksa-Marewska & Tokar,
2022). Regular feedback loops during and after the implementation can further refine
workflows and address any emerging issues promptly.
Integration with Existing Systems
Seamless integration of new technologies with existing systems is critical to avoid data silos,
duplicate data entry, and inconsistencies. Without proper integration, the benefits of
new systems can be undermined by inefficiencies and errors. Clinical leaders should
work closely with IT professionals to ensure interoperability between systems. This
collaboration involves meticulous planning and testing to minimize manual data entry
and reduce the risk of errors. Leveraging industry standards and the best practices for
system integration can enhance data flow and operational coherence across the
healthcare setting (Oleksa-Marewska & Tokar, 2022).
Cybersecurity and Privacy Concerns
The adoption of new technologies in healthcare raises significant concerns about data
security, privacy, and regulatory compliance. Protecting sensitive patient information
is paramount, particularly in the context of regulations such as HIPAA. Clinical
leaders must prioritize cybersecurity measures by collaborating with IT experts to
implement robust security protocols (Zajac et al., 2021). These measures include
access controls, encryption, and regular security audits. Ensuring compliance with
relevant regulations not only protects patient data but also enhances the trust and
confidence of both staff and patients in the new systems (Kelly et al., 2019).
Ongoing Support and Maintenance
Sustaining the long-term success of new technologies or systems requires ongoing support
and maintenance. After the initial implementation, continuous support is essential to
address staff questions, troubleshoot issues, and provide additional training as needed.
Clinical leaders should establish dedicated support teams or helpdesks to offer timely
assistance. Regular system updates and maintenance schedules are also crucial to
maintain optimal performance and security (Oleksa-Marewska & Tokar, 2022). By
ensuring that the support infrastructure is robust and responsive, clinical leaders can
help their staff adapt to and effectively utilize new technologies, ultimately improving
patient care outcomes and operational efficiency.
Conclusion
Successfully navigating the complexities of technological transitions in healthcare requires
clinical leaders to address a variety of challenges. By effectively managing resistance
to change, providing comprehensive training, minimizing workflow disruptions,
ensuring seamless system integration, prioritizing cybersecurity, and maintaining
ongoing support, clinical leaders can facilitate smoother transitions and optimize
processes (Zajac et al., 2021). These strategies not only help staff adapt to new
technologies but also enhance overall efficiency and improve patient care outcomes.
Through proactive leadership and strategic planning, clinical leaders can harness the
full potential of new technologies to drive advancements in healthcare delivery
570 hanan
[9:07 12/7/2024 ، ]م+966 55 115 6303: Technology and Information Systems Challenges
The e-health system’s commitment to delivering healthcare services to all individuals
worldwide has resulted in its extensive implementation in both developed and
developing countries. Currently, there are 58 nations that are members of the World
Health Organization (WHO) that have successfully adopted an e-health strategy.
Likewise, it is anticipated that swift progress in e-health would ultimately change the
operational framework of the healthcare industry (Alanezi F 2021). The widespread
adoption of e-health technologies can greatly enhance health services, health
surveillance, health literature, and health education. The e-health system facilitates
technological advancement and promotes a paradigm shift in attitudes and principles
towards prioritizing patients. It also fosters a desire to form global collaborations to
enhance healthcare provision at local, regional, and international levels. The Global
Observatory Health Survey revealed that the majority of developed countries deemed
e-health technology goods to be advantageous (Alanezi F 2021). Over 70% of
countries are effectively utilizing e-health services, and wealthier nations are actively
investing in e-health infrastructure and technology to improve healthcare delivery. In
order to enhance the provision of medical services to its citizens, the Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia (KSA) is making substantial investments in the healthcare sector. The ehealth system serves as the fundamental support for the Saudi Vision 2030 health
project. Currently, numerous medical facilities employ various forms of e-health
technologies or services, including electronic health records (EHRs), electronic
medical records (EMRs), picture archiving and communication systems (PACSs), and
telemedicine (Alanezi F 2021).
The integration of health information technology (IT) into a complex adaptive health system
has the potential to enhance care; however, it also introduces new challenges and
unintended consequences. The safety of health IT and its application in the clinical
environment has become a significant obstacle (Sittig et al., 2018). The scientific
community is making an effort to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the
intricate interactions between people, processes, environment, and technologies in
order to ensure the safe development, implementation, and maintenance of the new
digital infrastructure. Although recent research from in-patient settings indicates that
health IT can enhance the safety of care, it can also introduce new safety concerns,
some of which may not be apparent until after the technology has been implemented
(Sittig et al., 2018). Obstacles that hinder physicians’ utilization of electronic health
records (EHRs) have been classified into eight distinct categories. Change, time,
organization, law, finance, psychology, and technology were all addressed. To
summarize, the most prevalent concerns in all eight categories were the potential for
security breaches, the loss of data access due to computer crashes or power failures,
the time required to input and verify the quality of the data, the complexity of the
technology (particularly among personnel with limited English language and
computer skills), the potential to disrupt physician-patient communication, and the
inability to customize the system to the specific needs of each hospital (AlSadrah,
2020).
Obstacles included concerns regarding the absence of consistent support from hospital IT
personnel and the absence of training for health care professionals who utilize EMR.
The subsequent modifications are determined by the opinions of healthcare
professionals, anticipated challenges, and recommendations from prior research. EHR
training should be provided to new physicians as part of their residency orientation,
and it should be maintained as physicians progress in their professions (AlSadrah,
2020). This can be achieved through the implementation of conferences, seminars,
and online CME certifications, as well as the collaboration between hospital
administration and EHR suppliers to ensure that both initial and follow-up training is
provided. A second set of recommendations emphasizes the importance of improving
communication between medical professionals and patients. Mutual communication
via email or SMS must be ensured. This objective can be accomplished through the
implementation of high-speed Internet connections in healthcare institutions, the
enhancement of computer proficiency among physicians, and the heightened interest
of patients in engaging with their physicians online (AlSadrah, 2020). When it comes
to research and continuous monitoring, hospital administration should conduct
periodic evaluations of the utilization of various EHR features. In order to provide
decision-makers with guidance, it is imperative to monitor the general opinion and
ease of use of EHR among medical personnel over time. 41 These surveys will be
beneficial in an endless cycle of quality improvement. The majority of the studies that
were retrieved were conducted in hospitals, rendering it impossible to assess the
adoption of EHRs in community clinics. Research in these contexts is called for
(AlSadrah, 2020).
In summary, significant endeavors have been undertaken to integrate EHR systems into
healthcare institutions throughout Saudi Arabia over the past several decades. Among
these facilities are hospitals and other medical centers. Although some progress has
been made, the current review has revealed several obstacles and negative perceptions
that impede the full realization of this objective.. A lack of computer literacy, a lack
of support from IT personnel, and a lack of customization to the specific requirements
of each hospital system are among the barriers. These obstacles must be resolved
promptly to ensure that electronic health record (EHR) systems are utilized to their
utmost potential in Saudi hospitals (AlSadrah, 2020).
Reference:
Alanezi, F. (2020). Factors affecting the adoption of e-health system in the Kingdom of Saudi
Arabia. International Health, 13(5), 456–470.
AlSadrah, S. A. (2020). Electronic medical records and health care promotion in Saudi
Arabia. Saudi Medical Journal, 41(6), 583–589.
Sittig, D. F., Wright, A., Coiera, E., Magrabi, F., Ratwani, R., Bates, D. W., & Singh, H.
(2018). Current challenges in health information technology–related patient safety.
Health Informatics Journal, 26(1), 181–189.
570 lamia
Stroke in Saudi Arabia
Stroke, commonly described as a sudden loss of brain function due to a disruption in the
brain’s blood supply, is a prevalent non-communicable disease in the Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia (KSA) that presents significant challenges for disease monitoring. Data
on stroke in KSA is collected from various sources, including hospital records, health
surveys, and population-based studies. These sources provide essential data
concerning the incidence of stroke, patient outcomes, risk factors, and management
effectiveness (Basri et al, 2021).
The Saudi Stroke Management Program collects data on stroke incidence, risk factors like
hypertension and diabetes, and the
effectiveness of treatment and rehabilitation strategies. This data is instrumental in evaluating
the effectiveness of interventions
aimed at preventing and managing stroke. However, there are persistent challenges in
obtaining complete and accurate data on
stroke in KSA. Challenges in gathering statistics on stroke arise from various factors,
including the transient nature of some
stroke symptoms, underreporting, and the limited availability of specialized neurological care
in certain regions (Bakraa et al,
2021). The monitoring data on stroke in KSA indicates a significant burden of the disease,
particularly among the aging population. The
occurrence of stroke is influenced by multiple risk factors, such as obesity, inactive lifestyles,
poor dietary habits, and smoking. The data
underscores the need for improved screening, early detection, and effective management
strategies to address stroke in KSA. Additionally,
surveillance data reveals that a considerable number of stroke patients either experience
delayed diagnosis or receive suboptimal care,
highlighting the importance of enhancing awareness, improving diagnosis rates, and
optimizing treatment protocols to achieve better
management of stroke. Enhancing the effectiveness of public health campaigns about the risk
factors and consequences of stroke can
significantly improve individuals’ recognition of the condition and encourage timely medical
intervention (Bakraa et al, 2021). Furthermore,
healthcare institutions are encouraged to implement regular screenings for stroke risk factors
in primary care settings and promote frequent
health check-ups to uncover undetected cases (Bakraa et al, 2021).
For achieving optimal management of stroke, it is crucial to improve the availability and
affordability of stroke management medications and therapies, alongside providing
education on proper medication adherence, lifestyle modifications, and selfmanagement techniques.
The integration of technology, such as mobile health applications and telemedicine, can
facilitate remote monitoring and communication
between healthcare providers and patients, assisting in the continuous management and
follow-up of care. To enhance stroke awareness,
diagnosis, and treatment outcomes, KSA can effectively address these factors and implement
comprehensive measures. This will ultimately
reduce the burden of this non-communicable disease on the population (Cadel et al, 2023).
Specific demographic groups in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) experience a higher
prevalence of stroke compared to others. Studies conducted in major cities like
Riyadh have shown that individuals with lower socioeconomic status and those with
chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes have higher rates of stroke
compared to healthier and wealthier populations. There are also gender disparities in
stroke incidence, as men tend to have a higher prevalence than women in certain age
categories. These differences necessitate targeted interventions and tailored strategies
to reach people at high risk and meet their specific needs (Alluqmani et al,2021).
In summary, the surveillance data on stroke in KSA provides significant information
regarding the frequency, recognition, management, and regulation rates of the
condition. Despite the presence of obstacles, diligent efforts are being made to gather
comprehensive data and oversee the monitoring of stroke as well as the assessment of
management strategies. The research emphasizes the importance of boosting
knowledge, improving access to healthcare services, and implementing effective
measures to manage stroke, especially among high-risk populations in KSA
(Alqahtani et al,2020).
References:
Alluqmani, Majed M., et al. “Public Awareness of Ischemic Stroke in Medina City, Kingdom
of Saudi Arabia.” Neurosciences, vol. 26, no. 2, 7 Feb. 2021, pp. 134–140,
Accessed 22 Mar. 2022.
Alqahtani, Bader A., et al. “Incidence of Stroke among Saudi Population: A Systematic
Review and Meta-Analysis.” Neurological Sciences, vol. 41, no. 11, 20 June 2020,
pp. 3099–3104,
Bakraa, Reem, et al. “Stroke Risk Factor Awareness among Populations in Saudi Arabia.”
International Journal of General Medicine, vol. Volume 14, no. 1, Aug. 2021, pp.
4177–4182,
Basri, Rehana, et al. “Burden of Stroke in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: A Soaring
Epidemic.” Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal, vol. 29, no. 3, Feb. 2021,
Cadel, Lauren, et al. “Medication Self-Management Interventions for Persons with Stroke: A
Scoping Review.” PLoS ONE, vol. 18, no. 5, 18 May 2023, pp. e0285483–e0285483,
574 shahad
The Challenges of Diabetes Surveillance in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Diabetes mellitus is one of the non-communicable diseases that is prevalent in the Kingdom
of Saudi Arabia. In 2021. Currently, there are around 7 million people with type 1 and
type 2 diabetes and about 3 million are pre-diabetic in the kingdom (Al Slamah et al.,
2020). According to Al Slamah et al. (2020), the Saudi Health Interview Survey
(SHIS) shows that this high rate of diabetes incidence could be due to factors like
urbanization, inactive sedentary lifestyles, and dietary changes toward high-calorie,
carbohydrate-rich meals. Overall, this high prevalence is a significant threat to public
health.
Saudi Arabia faces many challenges in diabetes management, especially in data collection
and data analysis. One main challenge facing data collection is the issue of
underreporting (Abusalah et al., 2023). Most people facing less severe symptoms of
diabetes often end up not reporting. Others in marginalized areas also fail to report to
medical centers hence resulting in an underestimated conclusions and assumptions of
the actual prevalence of diabetes. Secondly, the differences in data collection
techniques used by various healthcare centers across the kingdom is also another issue
(Abusalah et al., 2023). It is important to create public health plans, specific data
collection patterns, and policies that effectively battle diabetes. Lastly, another critical
challenge facing the treatment of diabetes mellitus is the fact that the disease has a
complex epidemiological landscape (Abusalah et al., 2023). Many people can remain
asymptomatic hence underreport their cases.
The data that is most challenging to get is that of the cases of diabetes that are mild or
asymptomatic. Often mild and asymptomatic cases data can be difficult to find and
they evade detection in routine healthcare settings. Unlike symptomatic cases that
force individuals to seek medical attention, mild or asymptomatic diabetes can remain
undiagnosed for a longer.
Despite the various challenges facing diabetes data surveillance, this process provides useful
insights about the current and future trends of the disease within KSA. Surveillance
data provides more information about the prevalence rates and it highlights possible
future health trends in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (Abusalah et al., 2023). Based on
surveillance data, there is urgent need of creating focused interventions that create
more awareness of the disease, encourage healthier lifestyles and improve diabetes
identification and management.
In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the populations that is most at risk of getting diabetes are
the urban residents, the elderly, and the aging population (Abusalah et al., 2023).
Urban areas usually experience higher rates of diabetes due to sedentary lifestyles,
unhealthy dietary habits, and increased stress levels. The elderly (60 years and above)
often face a higher risk of developing diabetes due to age-related factors such as
decreased insulin sensitivity and overall health challenges (Abusalah et al., 2023). The
aging population, people between 40-59 years, also face high prevalence rates of
getting diabetes mainly due to lifestyle factors prevalent in urban settings. Priority
should be given to these populations when it comes to creating awareness and
creating interventions.
References
Abusalah, M. A. H., Albaker, W., Al-Bsheish, M., Alsyouf, A., Al-Mugheed, K., Issa, M. R.,
& Alumran, A. (2023). Prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus in the general
population of Saudi Arabia, 2000–2020: A systematic review and meta-analysis of
observational studies. Saudi Journal of Medicine & Medical Sciences, 11(1), 110.
s_mellitus_in_the.1.aspx
Al Slamah, T., Nicholl, B. I., Alslail, F. Y., Harris, L., Kinnear, D., & Melville, C. A. (2020).
Correlates of type 2 diabetes and glycaemic control in adults in Saudi Arabia a
secondary data analysis of the Saudi health interview survey. BMC Public Health, 20,
1-13.
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