Introduction to Health Care

A collection of vocabulary flashcards summarizing key concepts related to health services and the healthcare system, especially focusing on Saudi Arabia.

Health services

Services that involve the diagnosis and treatment of disease as well as the promotion, maintenance, and restoration of health.

Formal care

Care provided by trained, paid professionals usually in a formal setting.

Lay care

Care provided by untrained individuals, including self-care and care from friends or family.

Primary care

The first point of contact for patients, typically general in nature, provided in the community.

Secondary care

Specialized care accessed through referral from a primary care provider, usually available in local hospitals.

Tertiary care

Highly specialized care accessible only via referral from secondary care, provided in regional or national hospitals.

Public Health Services

Services designed to protect the health of citizens, including disease control, environmental health, and health education.

Private health care systems

Health services provided by private entities, including hospitals owned by private companies.

Government health care systems

Health services primarily provided by the government, notably through the Ministry of Health.

Demographics of Saudi Arabia's health system

Includes total population, hospital statistics, healthcare providers, and life expectancy figures.

MOH Budget

The budget allocated to the Ministry of Health, which accounts for 7% of the total government budget.

Self-help groups

Unpaid, self-taught groups that provide health problem solutions based on mutual support.