Saudi Arabia approves national emergency medical safety policy

The Saudi Council of Ministers has approved a national policy to enhance emergency medical safety in public places and workplaces. Developed by the Saudi Red Crescent Authority in partnership with relevant government agencies, the policy aligns with the principles of sustainable development and Saudi Vision 2030.

The policy aims to improve emergency preparedness, protect lives, and enhance healthcare outcomes by ensuring high-quality medical services are provided in record time. It focuses on five key pillars: emergency response, public space safety, community resilience for individual emergencies, management of out-of-hospital cardiac and respiratory arrest, and response responsibilities.

Key implementation strategies include ensuring material readiness through the distribution of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and medical supplies, as well as providing training for first responders. The scope covers a wide range of settings, including mosques, government facilities, sports complexes, educational institutions, transport hubs, and commercial centers, targeting employees, security personnel, and the general public.