The Role of Health Assistants in Implementing Saudi Vision 2030 Healthcare Goals: A Systematic Review of Current Evidence

Abstract

Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 outlines ambitious goals for transforming the healthcare system, with a focus on improving access, quality, and efficiency. Health assistants, as an emerging workforce in the Saudi healthcare sector, have the potential to play a crucial role in achieving these goals. This systematic review aims to synthesize the current evidence on the roles, contributions, and effectiveness of health assistants in implementing Saudi Vision 2030 healthcare goals. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using relevant databases, and 40 studies were included in the review. The findings highlight the diverse roles of health assistants in various healthcare settings, such as primary care, hospitals, and community services. These roles include patient care, health education, administrative support, and care coordination. The review also identifies the enablers and barriers to the effective integration and utilization of health assistants in the Saudi healthcare system, such as training, supervision, and scope of practice. Strategies for optimizing the contributions of health assistants in achieving Vision 2030 healthcare goals are discussed, including workforce planning, interprofessional collaboration, and technology-enabled care. The review concludes with recommendations for future research, policy, and practice to support the development and empowerment of health assistants as a key component of the Saudi healthcare workforce.