Development of the Saudi Arabian trauma system

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Systems
• Trauma Care
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia faces a significant burden of trauma, necessitating an optimized, network-based approach to patient care.
• Existing trauma care infrastructure requires enhancement to meet national needs and align with Vision 2030 objectives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the design, development, and implementation of a nationwide trauma system in Saudi Arabia.
• To outline the strategic approach, stakeholder engagement, and key components of the newly established Saudi Arabian trauma system.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the find, organize, clarify, understand, select-plan, do, check, and act (FOCUS-PDCA) model, involving over 300 healthcare professionals and patients in workshops.
• Formed a national Clinical Advisory Group (CAG) to analyze international trauma systems and guidelines, adapting them for the Saudi Arabian context.
• Developed an interactive document and trauma care standards to guide the socialization and implementation of new trauma networks.

Main Results:

• Successfully designed and initiated the implementation of a national trauma system framework.
• Established guiding principles for the trauma pathway, identified key challenges, and finalized the system's design.
• Developed a comprehensive trauma care standard document to support the rollout of trauma networks across the Kingdom.

Conclusions:

• The development of this trauma system represents a critical first step in advancing national trauma care in Saudi Arabia.
• The implemented model and strategies may serve as a guide for developing similar systems internationally, aiming to improve patient outcomes.