A Process Evaluation of Saudi Medicine Policy (2020): An Assessment of Structural and Process Indicators Using WHO’s Level I Framework

Introduction: Access to healthcare is a fundamental human right, and it cannot be achieved without the ease of access to essential medications. In 2016, Saudi Arabia started developing its healthcare through a specific transformation plan as part of its Vision 2030. The current study aimed to evaluate the implementation of the National Medicine Policy (NMP) in the pharmaceutical system as a framework for organizing and improving the pharmaceutical situation. Methods: A process evaluation was carried out, utilizing the World Health Organization (WHO) questionnaire that was distributed to the related authorities between December 2022 and January 2023. This study specifically used WHO Level I (structural and process) indicators. Results: The Saudi NMP was established in 2013 and formally approved as an official document in 2020. The Ministry of Health (MoH) assesses the pharmaceutical situation. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority regulates registration, licensing, and quality control. The National Unified Purchase Company and Al-Dawaa manage the medication supply system using the essential medication lists. A key finding is that the NMP lacks specific goals and a defined timeline for its implementation. Additionally, the monitoring of Adverse Drug Reactions is centralized, rather than local or regional. Conclusion: The Saudi healthcare system demonstrates fragmentation; effective implementation of the NMP would require defining a set of specific objectives within a timeline. Furthermore, the MoH oversees clinical guidelines and the rational use of medications, yet this role demonstrates weaknesses.