Patient satisfaction in primary care in Saudi Arabia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Alhanouf F. Altamimi, Abeer Badi Almutairi, Malak A. Alyahya, Raghad A. Almansour
A
BSTRACT
Objective:
Patient satisfaction is a key indicator of healthcare quality, particularly in primary care settings, where the patient–physician relationship is central. Recent healthcare reforms under Saudi Vision 2030 emphasize strengthening patient-centered care. This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the overall patient satisfaction with primary care services in Saudi Arabia and explored associated regional and demographic differences.
Methods:
A systematic search was conducted across seven databases— MEDLINE, EMBASE, OVID, CINAHL, and key Saudi medical journals (Saudi Medical Journal, Annals of Saudi Medicine, and Journal of Family and Community Medicine)—for studies published between January 2017 and April 2025. Eligible studies were original research conducted in primary care settings in Saudi Arabia. Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool. Data were synthesized using narrative and meta-analytical methods.
Results:
Of 14,008 identified studies, 21 met the inclusion criteria, with a combined sample size of 549,263 participants. Significant heterogeneity was observed among studies (
Conclusion:
The overall level of patient satisfaction in primary care settings in Saudi Arabia is moderate and varies by region. Although technical competence and communication are generally strong, improvements in provider empathy and service accessibility are required. These findings support targeted quality improvement efforts and policy interventions to improve patient-centered primary care in Saudi Arabia.