The Impact Of Private Hospitals' Participation In Providing Emergency Services During Religious Seasons, In Cooperation With The Saudi Red Crescent Authority In Makkah Al-Mukarramah

Abstract

This study investigates the role and impact of private hospitals’ participation in providing emergency medical services during religious seasons—specifically Ramadan and Hajj—in Makkah Al-Mukarramah, in coordination with the Saudi Red Crescent Authority. With millions of pilgrims converging annually on Makkah, emergency services face exceptional challenges in managing demand, crowd density, and health emergencies. This research adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from structured surveys and qualitative data from interviews and document analysis, to evaluate the effectiveness, coordination mechanisms, performance indicators, and challenges of public-private partnerships during these peak periods.

Findings indicate that private hospitals contribute significantly to alleviating pressure on public emergency systems by providing fully equipped ambulances, trained personnel, and infrastructure support. However, challenges remain in real-time coordination, role clarity, and sustainable funding. The study also reveals generally high levels of patient satisfaction, improved service response time, and enhanced reputational outcomes for private hospitals. It concludes with evidence-based recommendations to optimize cooperation frameworks, develop joint protocols, and align emergency healthcare services with Vision 2030 objectives. This research contributes to the body of knowledge on emergency service delivery in mass gathering contexts and offers actionable insights for policy development and health system strengthening.