Gulf New reports that Saudi Arabia is using a joint helicopter/drone delivery service to transport critical medical supplies during this year’s Haj, “significantly cutting delivery times and raising the bar for healthcare services at mass gatherings,” said the newspaper report.
“As part of the Hajj season, the Saudi Ministry of Health, in partnership with the National Unified Procurement Company (Nupco), integrated drones and helicopters into its medical supply chain, a first-of-its-kind initiative globally for a religious event of this scale. Health Minister Fahad Al Jalajel said the system was designed to ensure rapid response to medical emergencies, particularly in areas experiencing high pilgrim density. The system delivery times from around one hour to just five minutes, according to the ministry.”
According to the Saudi Press Agency:
“In one key instance, Mina Emergency Hospital received a drone delivery of ice packs used for treating heat exhaustion and sunstroke, as part of intensified preparedness efforts coinciding with the start of the stoning ritual on the first day of Eid Al-Adha.
“The drone-based delivery service follows a multi-phase process starting with preparation, including determining quantities and coordinating with healthcare facilities. Next is packaging using advanced technology in line with Saudi Food and Drug Authority regulations. Then, medical, pharmaceutical, and laboratory items are processed, issued, and delivered to healthcare locations across the holy sites. The final phases include transport scheduling and real-time tracking via a central monitoring dashboard to ensure smooth operations. The initiative aligns with the healthcare system’s commitment to creating a safe and healthy environment that enables pilgrims to perform their rituals with ease and comfort. It also reflects efforts to deliver world-class healthcare services in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.”
For more information
https://www.spa.gov.sa/en/N2336031
(Image: Ministry of Health)
