Artificial intelligence and prevention to improve the quality of healthcare
A group of leading medical experts affirmed that achieving universal health coverage extends beyond simply providing treatment; it also encompasses promoting prevention as a cornerstone for ensuring quality healthcare. Speaking to Al-Youm newspaper on the occasion of World Health Day, the experts explained that addressing contemporary medical challenges, such as chronic diseases and mental health disorders, requires societal awareness and comprehensive collaboration. They pointed out that modern technologies and artificial intelligence have revolutionized the pace of diagnosis and enhanced the efficiency of medical systems, thus offering patients better chances of recovery and a more stable life.
The evolution of global health concepts and their impact on the quality of healthcare
Historically, World Health Day was launched in the mid-20th century to commemorate the founding of the World Health Organization, with the aim of highlighting priority health issues. Over the decades, the concept has evolved from simply combating epidemics to focusing on sustainable development and universal health coverage. Internationally, this shift is crucial in reducing health disparities between countries, while regionally and locally, it aligns closely with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which places human health at the heart of its priorities through the Health Sector Transformation Program, aimed at facilitating access to services and improving the efficiency of the healthcare system.
Prevention is a cornerstone of social and economic stability
Family physician and public health and preventive care specialist, Dr. Ammar Baltayour, explained that universal health coverage is a cornerstone of social stability. It ensures access to medical services for everyone without financial burden, thus reducing poverty and enhancing individual productivity. He noted that the world today faces major challenges such as diabetes and hypertension, issues that require societal awareness. He revealed that individuals can embody the concept of "prevention is better than cure" by adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, physical activity, and adherence to regular checkups. He pointed to the revolutionary role of modern technologies, such as artificial intelligence and telemedicine, in accelerating diagnosis, concluding that an individual's investment in their health today is a guarantee for their community's future.
Equity in access to advanced medical services
Dr. Nabila Al Abdullah
Professor Nabila Al Abdullah, a professor of public health and epidemiology, explained that universal health coverage ensures equitable access to preventive and curative services, thus contributing to reduced morbidity and mortality rates. She noted that public health faces increasing challenges, most notably chronic diseases and emerging epidemics, requiring concerted efforts to raise awareness. She pointed out that modern technologies and artificial intelligence contribute to supporting public health systems by improving epidemiological surveillance and enhancing response, emphasizing that investing in prevention is the path to healthier and more sustainable societies.
Psychological well-being and modern technologies
Dr. Dima Hammami
Dr. Dima Hammami, a consultant in general surgery, endocrine surgery, and breast cancer, affirmed that universal health coverage means peace of mind. When individuals feel secure in their access to care without financial burden, they become more productive. She explained that societies built on an equitable healthcare system experience reduced inequalities and increased opportunities for education and employment, which in turn strengthens the economy. She pointed out that prevention begins with simple details, emphasizing that artificial intelligence and precision medicine have transformed medical practice, making diagnosis more accurate and faster, and treatment more personalized.
Reliable awareness as the first line of defense
Dr. Joud Al-Mutairi, Assistant Professor at the College of Medicine, King Saud University, and a public health consultant, explained that universal health coverage is the cornerstone of building stable societies. She indicated that adopting a preventative approach begins with simple daily choices. She pointed out that modern medical technologies play a pivotal role in improving diagnostic accuracy and supporting informed health decisions. She emphasized that true health awareness can only be achieved by consulting specialists and reliable sources, and by avoiding misinformation that could directly harm the health of individuals and society.
Investing in a healthy and sustainable future
Dr. Mashael Houbani
Dr. Mashael Ahmed Houbani, Assistant Professor of Health Policy at King Abdulaziz University, revealed that universal health coverage is one of the most important pillars of sustainable development, as it extends to include prevention and enhancing quality of life. She explained that the spread of lifestyle-related diseases requires a high level of community awareness. She emphasized that the health sector has witnessed remarkable development thanks to modern technologies that have contributed to increasing the accuracy of diagnosis and accelerating treatment delivery, such as artificial intelligence and telemedicine. She concluded by stressing that every small step towards a healthy lifestyle represents a real contribution to building a prosperous society.
