The Evolving Role of Nurses in Chronic Disease Management: A Comparative Analysis Across Healthcare Systems in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Chronic diseases are a major public health challenge globally, and Saudi Arabia is no exception, facing high rates of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity. Nurses play a crucial role in managing these conditions, with responsibilities expanding to include patient education, lifestyle counseling, and ongoing monitoring. This study investigates the evolving role of nurses in chronic disease management (CDM) across Saudi Arabia’s public hospitals and specialized healthcare centers, analyzing variations in nurse responsibilities, resource availability, patient satisfaction, and the impact of nurse-led interventions. Findings indicate that specialized centers, with greater resource support and lower patient-to-nurse ratios, facilitate a higher level of individualized care, contributing to improved patient satisfaction and disease outcomes. In contrast, public hospitals struggle with limited resources and high patient loads, restricting the depth of nurse engagement in CDM. Statistical analysis underscores the positive correlation between nurse-led interventions—particularly lifestyle counseling and health education—and patient satisfaction. These results highlight the need for targeted policy reforms to support nurses in public hospitals, ensuring effective CDM across healthcare settings. This research advocates for greater investment in training and resources to empower nurses, ultimately strengthening Saudi Arabia's healthcare response to the chronic disease epidemic.