Implications Of Workload And Work Environment Among Expatriate Healthcare Workers In Saudi Arabia: Narrative Review

Abstract

This narrative review explores the challenges faced by expatriate healthcare workers in Saudi Arabia, focusing on workload, work environment, and their impact on well-being and job satisfaction. Berry’s acculturation theory provides the theoretical framework, examining how expatriate healthcare workers adapt to the cultural norms and healthcare practices in the sociocultural setup of Saudi Arabia. The examined literature evidence shows that the expatriate healthcare workers face a plethora of challenges regarding workload and work environment, including high workload, long working hours, inadequate staffing, improper recruitment practices, cultural differences, poor living conditions and social support. This review further noted that proper coping mechanisms and support systems should be availed to the expatriate health workers, including professional support, language training, and improved working conditions.