Abstract

The Hajj pilgrimage significantly impacts Saudi Arabia, particularly in healthcare. Saudi Arabia offers free healthcare to pilgrims via hospitals and health centers, essential for managing millions of pilgrims. The high demand during Hajj drives nursing reforms, integrating advanced medical technologies, professional development, and international standards. Purpose:This study examines Hajj’s influence on healthcare services and nursing reforms, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 goals. Patients and methods: This study is a nationwide census survey conducted the analysis of the selective indicators during mass gatherings like the “Hajj Pilgrimage”. The study employs secondary data of six selected indicators (visits to PHCs; emergency encounters; visits to outpatient departments; admissions to hospital; heat exhaustion cases; heat stroke cases and efficacy of nurses’ performance). Results:Analyzing data from 2015-2019, the study shows a consistent increase in healthcare professionals, with nurses crucial in patient care. The study highlights the importance of non-human resources like health facilities and emergency departments in meeting pilgrims’ healthcare needs. Professional development programs have significantly improved nursing performance, with job satisfaction rates among nurses reaching over 85% by 2022. Conclusion: Findings underscore the necessity for early preparations, continuous training, and strategic resource allocation to enhance nursing care during mass gatherings like Hajj. This comprehensive approach supports Vision 2030, aiming to create a flexible, responsive healthcare infrastructure capable of meeting large-scale event demands, ensuring the health and safety of all pilgrims. 

Keywords

nursing reforms, healthcare services, Saudi vision 2030, hajj pilgrimage, mass gathering, public health preparedness