Shaqra General Hospital increases emergency capacity by 80% – Development details

In a move reflecting the Saudi Arabian healthcare sector's commitment to achieving the goals of the Health Sector Transformation Program, Shaqra General Hospital , part of the Riyadh Health Cluster 3, announced the completion of a major expansion and significant upgrades to its vital facilities. These developments included an unprecedented 80% increase in emergency department capacity and a 60% increase in outpatient clinic capacity, representing a qualitative leap in the level of services provided to residents of the governorate and its surrounding areas.

The context of health transformation and Vision 2030

These developments at Shaqra General Hospital are an integral part of the comprehensive transformation underway in the Kingdom's healthcare sector, in line with Vision 2030. Through the establishment of health clusters, the Ministry of Health aims to facilitate access to healthcare services, enhance operational efficiency, and improve quality of life. Strengthening the infrastructure of peripheral and general hospitals in the governorates is a key pillar in reducing pressure on central hospitals in major cities and ensuring that citizens and residents receive comprehensive healthcare in their local areas.

Details of the qualitative and technological leap

The development work was not limited to increasing beds and spaces, but also included a package of advanced technological and construction projects, including:

• Updating the CT scan department: equipping it with the latest equipment to ensure accurate diagnosis and fast results.
• Developing academic affairs and training: to raise the efficiency of medical and technical staff and keep up with scientific developments.
• Smart systems: Introducing modern medical devices and linking them to a smart central control system, which enhances the speed of medical response and reduces human errors.

Improving patient experience and safety standards

Engineer Abdulaziz Al-Abdulwahab, Assistant Executive Director of Operations, explained that these projects were implemented according to strict international standards that prioritize patient safety. He emphasized that the direct impact of this expansion is already evident through reduced waiting times in the emergency and outpatient departments, and the improved triage and reception pathways, thus facilitating a smoother and more private patient journey within the hospital.

Strategic importance and expected impact

This development is particularly important given the strategic location of Shaqra Governorate and its growing population. Increased capacity means greater preparedness to handle critical cases and accidents, and a reduced need for medical referrals to Riyadh except in highly specialized cases. These steps also align with the requirements of the Saudi Central Board for Accreditation of Healthcare Institutions (CBAHI), enhancing the local community's confidence in the healthcare system and its ability to provide an advanced and sustainable model of care.