In a qualitative step reflecting the rapid development of health services in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Ministry of Health launched the “Make Sure” initiative in the capital, Riyadh, which allows citizens and residents to conduct coronavirus (COVID-19) tests while inside their vehicles, as part of the precautionary and preventive measures taken by the Kingdom to control the spread of the virus.
How "Ta'akkad" centers operate and how to book an appointment
The "Ta'akkad" centers offer a seamless and safe PCR testing service, allowing individuals to remain in their cars without leaving their vehicles, thus minimizing the risk of contact and infection. This initiative primarily targets asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic individuals who believe they may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. Accessing the service is a simple digital process, beginning with booking an appointment through the Ministry's "Sehhaty" app, selecting the nearest center, arriving at the scheduled time for the swab test, and leaving immediately. Results are later sent via SMS and updated on the app.
Context of the initiative and the digital health transformation
This step builds upon the Kingdom's successes in managing the global health crisis, with the Ministry of Health dedicating all its technical and human resources to expanding testing. The launch of drive-up testing centers is part of an expanded epidemiological surveillance strategy aimed at early case detection and breaking chains of infection before they spread. This initiative also reflects the significant development in the digital infrastructure of the health sector, aligning with the goals of Vision 2030 to enhance public health and facilitate access to medical services.
The difference between "Ta'akkad" centers and "Tataman" clinics
It is essential to distinguish between the pathways provided by the Ministry of Health to serve the community during the pandemic. While the "Ta'akkad" (Check) centers are dedicated to testing those who do not exhibit advanced symptoms or who simply wish to be reassured, the Ministry established "Tataman" (Reassure) clinics to receive those experiencing actual symptoms of the disease, such as fever and shortness of breath, providing them with direct medical care. This precise organization helped alleviate pressure on hospital emergency rooms and ensured that medical resources were directed efficiently to those who needed them most.
Strategic importance and expected impact
The launch of these centers in Riyadh marks the beginning of expanding the initiative across the Kingdom, thereby increasing laboratory capacity and daily testing rates—the global gold standard for epidemic control. These measures underscore the proactive nature of the Saudi healthcare system and its ability to develop flexible solutions that ensure public safety, positioning the Kingdom among the leading nations in rapid response to health emergencies.
