Overview

Abdullah is a dedicated postgraduate research student pursuing his PhD at the University of Exeter. His research focuses on the crucial area of measuring patient experiences within the context of primary care in Saudi Arabia, with a keen eye on the intricacies of primary care reform in the country.

Abdullah embarked on his doctoral journey in September 2019, beginning with a comprehensive scoping review that delved into the diverse landscape of patient experience measurement within primary care. This initial phase laid the foundation for a series of enlightening focus group sessions conducted with primary care patients in Saudi Arabia. Through these focus groups, he gained valuable insights into the intricate tapestry of patient perspectives, which became instrumental in shaping his research.

The culmination of his scoping review and focus group endeavors led to the development of an innovative questionnaire. This instrument was meticulously designed to gauge the nuanced dimensions of patient experience within the Saudi Arabian primary care setting, while also capturing the essential aspects of ongoing reform initiatives and key features.

Abdullah's overarching aim in this research endeavour is to provide essential guidance to policymakers in Saudi Arabia. By shedding light on how patients perceive and engage with primary care reforms, he aspires to empower these decision-makers with actionable insights. His hope is that this research will ultimately catalyze improvements in the overall patient experience within primary care centers throughout Saudi Arabia, ultimately leading to a more patient-centric healthcare system.

Qualifications

• MSc Healthcare Management, Swansea University, 2016.
• BSc Health Services and Hospitals Administration (King Abdul-Aziz University) 2012.
• Diploma in Medical Applied Sciences (Physiotherapy), Jazan University, 2006.

Grants/Funding:

• Saudi Government Sponsorship

Career

2005 Started government job as Physiotherapy assistant in Faifa General Hospital, Jazan, Saudi Arabia.

2007 Started new role as head of physio therapy department in Alardha General Hospital.

2010 Nominated to the position of quality insurance director, Physiotherapy Dept., Samtah General Hospital.

2012 Promoted to Healthcare Management Specialist in Samtah General Hospital, Jazan, Saudi Arabia.

2017 Nominated for the Hospital Director Assistant At Smatah General Hospital.

2019 Started postgraduate research at University of Exeter. United Kingdom.

Research group links

• Institute of Health Research

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Research

Research projects

Current Projects:

• Assessing Primary Health Care Reform in Saudi Arabia: A study aims to evaluate the performance of PHC models in Saudi Arabia, using scoping review, focus group and surveys. 

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Teaching

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Office Hours:

Monday - Thursday (9.15 - 3.15)

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