Latest news with #PrimaryHealthCareCorporation
Qatar Tribune
21-05-2025
- Health
- Qatar Tribune
PHCC announces the launch of ICOPE clinic at QU Health Centre
Tribune News Network Doha The Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) has officially announced the launch of the Integrated Care for Older People (ICOPE) Clinic at Qatar University Health Centre on Thursday, May 15, 2025, a new step forward in expanding services dedicated to the elderly population. This expansion follows the successful implementation of the service in three other health centres where the clinic is already active: Leabaib: Mondays, 8am to 1pm; Al Wajba: Wednesdays, 8am to 1pm; and Rawdat Al Khail: Thursdays, 8am to 1pm. The launch of the clinic at Qatar University Health Centre marks a significant addition, reaffirming the success of the initiative and the effectiveness of its services in supporting the health of older adults. What is the ICOPE Screening Tool? The ICOPE screening tool was developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to address the various physiological changes associated with aging. The risks of experiencing declines in physical and mental capacities increase for older adults. In collaboration with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), the pilot phase of this service will be targeted at older people aged 60 and above. The clinic offers a person-centred, integrated care model managed by a multidisciplinary team. The Screening Tool Assesses: Visual impairment, hearing loss, cognitive decline and depressive symptoms, malnutrition, and mobility loss and falls. Currently, the service is available only to registered patients at Qatar University Health Centre. Eligible patients are identified and invited to undergo screening. PHCC will announce at a later stage when the service is expanded to accept referrals from all health centres. The clinic operates every Thursday from 8am to 1pm at Qatar University Health Centre.
Qatar Tribune
13-05-2025
- Health
- Qatar Tribune
PHCC wraps up campaign for bullying-free schools
Tribune News Network Doha As part of its ongoing commitment to promoting the physical and mental wellbeing of the community, the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) concluded its comprehensive awareness campaign under the slogan 'For a Safe School Environment', held in celebration of the 'Bullying-Free Schools Campaign'. The initiative was organised by PHCC's School Health Services and Programmes Department and ran from April 12 to May 1. The campaign aimed to raise awareness among students, parents, and school staff about bullying and its negative effects on individuals and society. It focused on enhancing awareness and highlighting the role of school nurses in addressing this issue by educating students and school staff on preventive measures and necessary treatment procedures. The initiative also sought to promote mutual respect and tolerance to provide a safe educational environment that supports the mental health of all students. Additionally, it aimed to familiarise the school community with the concept of bullying, its various forms, and the health and psychological risks students may face due to bullying, while educating everyone on how to prevent this phenomenon. The campaign included many awareness activities, such as interactive workshops and lectures in all public schools, with a focus on explaining the concepts and causes of bullying. Awareness cards promoting values of respect and tolerance were distributed, and a 'Weekly Values Challenge' was organised among students to encourage them to adopt positive behaviours. Awareness videos were also broadcast on social media platforms, and text messages were sent to parents with tips on how to protect their children from bullying. PHCC confirmed that school nurses play a pivotal role in reducing bullying by providing psychological support to affected students, organising regular awareness campaigns, and collaborating with school administrations to implement effective preventive strategies. The PHCC also called on all segments of society to actively participate in the initiative and support efforts to eliminate bullying within schools and promote a safe and motivating environment for students. The PHCC pointed out that this initiative is part of its ongoing strategies to improve students' mental health and foster a culture of respect and tolerance within the school community, contributing to the development of a healthy, psychologically and socially balanced generation.
Qatar Tribune
08-05-2025
- Health
- Qatar Tribune
PHCC and AMAN centre collaborate to enhance specialized care for women and children
DOHA: The Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) and the Protection and Social Rehabilitation Center (AMAN) signed a cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening community partnership and enhancing services provided to the most vulnerable groups - specifically women and children who are victims of violence and family breakdown. The agreement was signed by Executive Director of Operations at PHCC, Dr Samya Ahmed Al Abdulla, and Acting Executive Director of AMAN, Fadl Mohammed Al Kaabi. Under the agreement, beneficiaries will be granted easier access to preventive and therapeutic healthcare services provided by PHCC, while AMAN will continue supporting protection, rehabilitation, and social integration programs. The partnership also involves exchanging expertise and information and organizing joint awareness campaigns to promote violence prevention and reinforce family cohesion. This will be accomplished through the establishment of a sustainable framework that enhances the quality of support and services, and by building an integrated safety network for beneficiaries through joint workshops, seminars, and training programs. Managing Director of PHCC, Dr Mariam Ali Abdulmalik, stated that the agreement marks a significant step forward for both organizations and serves broader benefit of Qatari society, which remains the central focus of all state institutions and the true compass for collaboration and joint action plans. In a press statement, she added that the collaboration would substantially boost community engagement. It aligns with PHCC's commitment to advancing efforts that foster a person-and community-centered healthcare culture and to opening direct lines of communication with members of the community. PHCC emphasized that signing the agreement reflects its interest in reorienting services based on the perspectives of various stakeholders and societal sectors, offering more integrated and holistic care focused on individuals and families. Acting Executive Director of AMAN, Fadl bin Mohammed Al Kaabi, stressed the importance of activating the principle of community partnership with sectors that provide fundamental rights to AMAN's target groups - namely, women, children, and victims of family violence and breakdown. He noted that the healthcare sector plays a vital role in supporting these groups, calling it a strategic partner. Through the agreement, access to AMAN's protection, rehabilitation, and reintegration services will be facilitated, while PHCC will contribute by offering preventive and therapeutic healthcare services to AMAN's target population, in addition to collaborating in information exchange and expertise sharing. Executive Director of Operations at PHCC, Samya Ahmed Al Abdulla, emphasized that the agreement represents an important step in enhancing synergy between the healthcare and social sectors, providing mutual support for both preventive and therapeutic programs, and delivering professional, comprehensive services that meet the needs of all groups. She added that ongoing communication with partners plays a key role in improving the quality of healthcare services and raising awareness of the importance of prevention and rehabilitation, ultimately reflecting positively on public health outcomes. She also pointed out that the agreement will help solidify cooperation between the two parties and achieve their shared goals through a sustainable and practical framework - one that enhances public health and the quality of services provided to target groups, especially women, children, and victims of domestic violence. It will also aid in their rehabilitation and reintegration into society, and promote awareness of child protection and rehabilitation for those affected by psychological and social challenges.
Qatar Tribune
07-05-2025
- Health
- Qatar Tribune
Health protection startswith hand hygiene: PHCC
Tribune News Network Doha On World Hand Hygiene Day, on May 5, 2025, under the slogan 'It Might Be Gloves. It's Always Hand Hygiene', the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), in cooperation with the Ministry of Public Health, is participating in the annual global campaign organised by the World Health Organization (WHO). The campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of hand hygiene—regardless of glove use—as a fundamental measure to protect both patients and healthcare workers. Dr Hamad Al Mudahka, executive director of the Preventive Health Directorate, emphasised the corporation's commitment to minimising the various risks that may arise in health centres, including the transmission of microbes, with hands being a primary vector for many infectious diseases. He noted that infections can be transmitted either directly or indirectly via contaminated surfaces. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 80 percent of infectious diseases are spread through touch, making hand hygiene the simplest and most effective method for preventing infections both in the community and healthcare settings. We can protect ourselves and others by adopting healthy practices such as regular handwashing—especially after sneezing or coughing, before eating, and after using the restroom. It is also essential to avoid touching the face (mouth, nose, and eyes) with unclean hands, to use tissues when sneezing or coughing and dispose of them properly, and to disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as phones and door handles. Educating children and others about the importance of hand hygiene and encouraging consistent practice is also vital. When asked about the best methods for hand hygiene—soap or sanitiser—Dr Hamad Al Mudahka explained that washing hands with soap and water is most appropriate when hands are visibly dirty or after using the restroom, as it effectively removes dirt and microbes. Alcohol-based hand sanitiser, containing at least 70 percent alcohol, is also highly effective in killing most germs and viruses and serves as a practical alternative when soap and water are not available. Dr Khalid Elawad, health protection manager, highlighted that hands are a primary vehicle for transmitting many infectious diseases, either directly—such as through handshakes—or indirectly by touching contaminated surfaces like elevator buttons, shopping carts, money, and door handles. Studies indicate that hands are responsible for transmitting up to 80 percent of viruses and bacteria. Just one touch of a contaminated surface followed by contact with the face—mouth, nose, or eyes—can lead to infection. Dr Ahmed Hashem, IPAC Specialist at PHCC, emphasised that maintaining hand hygiene is not only an effective defence against the spread of serious infections, but also a simple action that can make a significant difference—particularly in healthcare settings, where patients are more vulnerable. Research indicates that enhancing hand hygiene practices can result in up to a 50 percent reduction in healthcare-associated infections. Through this campaign, PHCC aims to strengthen and embed hand hygiene habits, encouraging both the community and healthcare professionals to view infection prevention as a shared responsibility. Dr Ahmed Hashem noted that PHCC has launched a series of awareness activities to mark the occasion, including lectures and educational workshops on the importance of hand hygiene, the distribution of brochures and flyers to staff and visitors, and the installation of awareness booths in health centres featuring educational content for patients and visitors. PHCC reaffirmed that 'prevention begins with hand hygiene' and emphasised that this simple yet vital step represents the first line of defence against infection—a shared responsibility between healthcare professionals and the wider public.
Qatar Tribune
05-05-2025
- Health
- Qatar Tribune
UCQ marks nearly two decades of excellence in nursing education ahead of final convocation
Tribune News Network Doha For almost two decades, the University of Calgary in Qatar (UCQ) has been more than an academic institution — it has been a home for aspiring nurses and a driving force in Qatar's evolving healthcare system. As UCQ prepares to graduate its final cohort on May 11 before officially concluding its operations, it leaves behind a legacy through its alumni, who continue to shape the future of patient care. Since its founding in 2006, UCQ has educated over 1,100 skilled nurses from over 40 nationalities, including more than 120 Qatari alumni. At the core of UCQ's legacy lies its comprehensive academic offerings. The Nursing Foundations Programme was established to help students successfully transition into the Bachelor of Nursing programme, providing the foundational knowledge and skills needed for their nursing studies. Over the years, this programme was a crucial steppingstone in preparing nurses for the challenges of the healthcare field. The Bachelor of Nursing programme, UCQ's flagship offering, has been the cornerstone of its success for nearly two decades. This rigorous undergraduate programme has equipped students with the academic knowledge and practical experience necessary to excel in healthcare. Graduates of the programme have become integral to Qatar's healthcare system, significantly impacting patient care, leadership, and management, and contributing to healthcare services throughout the country. In 2013, UCQ expanded its academic offerings with the launch of the Master of Nursing programme, further contributing to the development of highly skilled healthcare professionals. This graduate programme addressed the growing need for nursing leaders and educators in Qatar. In partnership with the National Cancer Care and Research Hospital (Al Amal Hospital), the master's degree prepared nurses for advanced practice in oncology nursing. In 2014, in collaboration with Hamad Medical Corporation and Primary Health Care Corporation, a leadership stream was the graduate programme built capacity for patient care leadership in highly specialized settings, and it developed nurses' skills in reading and conducting research, appraising evidence for practice, and developing managerial and leadership skills. With over 80 graduates, the MN programme has significantly contributed to Qatar's healthcare sector, with alumni taking on critical roles in healthcare policy, education, and clinical practice. Through its internationally accredited nursing programme, rigorous academic training, and strong collaborations with key healthcare stakeholders, including Hamad Medical Corporation, Sidra Medicine, and Primary Health Care Corporation, UCQ has set a benchmark for nursing education in the region. A key milestone in UCQ's history was the introduction of the Best Practice Spotlight Organization (BPSO) initiative, which made UCQ the first institution in the Middle East to receive this prestigious designation. BPSO is an internationally renowned programme that enhances patient care by fostering evidence-based practices. Through BPSO, UCQ's students have spearheaded projects and initiatives to improve clinical practice and patient outcomes, ensuring that their nursing practice is equipped with the latest evidence-based knowledge. In addition, UCQ has been a leader in Continuing Professional Development (CPD), offering a range of educational opportunities for healthcare professionals to enhance their skills and stay current with advancements in the field. This programme has been essential in helping nurses and other healthcare professionals advance their careers and adapt to the evolving needs of Qatar's healthcare system. 'The success of UCQ over the past two decades has been driven by our dedicated faculty, who brought both academic rigor and practical expertise to the classroom. Our graduates have consistently elevated the standards of healthcare practice in Qatar, and we take immense pride in the legacy they have built,' said Dr. Janet Rankin, interim dean of UCQ. 'As we prepare for our final convocation, we celebrate the partnerships and support that have allowed us to fulfil our mission of delivering world-class nursing education.' Professor Hala Sultan Saif Al Easa, president and CEO of UCQ, said: 'UCQ has contributed significantly to nursing education and the healthcare sector in Qatar. Our alumni have become leaders in patient care, research, and education, and their impact will continue to shape the future of healthcare in the region.' Dr. Khalid Al Thani, chair of UCQ's Board of Trustees, added: 'UCQ's commitment to excellence in nursing education played a vital role in advancing the Qatar National Vision 2030, particularly in the development of a highly trained and competent healthcare workforce. We are very proud of the lasting impact that UCQ has made.' This year's convocation ceremony will see 120 graduates join UCQ's esteemed alumni, furthering the institution's legacy of excellence. UCQ's impact on Qatar's healthcare landscape has been profound, thanks to its focus on education, research, and community engagement. As UCQ concludes its final year, the university is deeply grateful to the State of Qatar for its ongoing support, particularly to the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, whose support has been crucial in enabling it to provide high-quality nursing education. While the institution's presence may be coming to an end, its legacy will live on through its graduates and the ongoing contributions they make to healthcare in Qatar and beyond. For media inquiries, please get in touch with Rasha Refaat at
