The Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) places significant emphasis on preventive health as a fundamental pillar in improving quality of life and reducing chronic diseases. Through innovative programs and effective strategies, PHCC is dedicated to promoting early detection and preventive healthcare.

In this context, Dr. Hamad Al-Mudhahka, Executive Director of Preventive Health at PHCC, highlighted the department’s remarkable achievements in 2024, which reflect PHCC’s steadfast commitment to public health and community well-being. He noted that various divisions within the department have continued to develop preventive programs and enhance early detection efforts, ultimately improving healthcare services and ensuring accessibility for a larger segment of society.

Oral and Dental Health

The Oral Health Promotion and Prevention Department has made significant strides, including expanding the Asnani School Oral Health Program to reach tens of thousands of students. The department also launched the Oral Health Ambassadors Program to empower educational staff and promote health awareness among students.

Additionally, large-scale community outreach events were conducted in collaboration with various national organizations, featuring impactful awareness programs during National Sports Day, Qatar National Day, Hajj season, and World Diabetes Day. These initiatives reinforced the link between oral health and overall well-being.

On the research front, the department contributed to prestigious scientific studies, reflecting its commitment to research as a foundation for improving oral health. Furthermore, efforts are underway to introduce mandatory annual oral screenings for students and transition parental consent forms to a digital system, which will streamline procedures and enhance service efficiency.

Early Cancer Detection

Dr. Al-Mudhahka stated: “The National Breast and Bowel Cancer Screening Programs witnessed a year of success, with impactful awareness campaigns such as the Colorectal Cancer Awareness Campaign in March and Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign in October. These initiatives gained widespread community engagement and significantly increased early screening rates.”

To enhance patient experience, PHCC introduced modern communication tools, including educational videos and updated brochures. Additionally, the launch of electronic registration facilitated access for thousands of individuals seeking cancer screenings.

One of the most notable advancements was the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technology to assist radiologists in interpreting medical images, improving diagnostic accuracy and screening quality. Moreover, specialized training programs were implemented to enhance healthcare professionals’ expertise and ensure the adoption of the latest medical practices.

Health Protection and Infection Control

Dr. Al-Mudhahka emphasized that PHCC’s Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) Team made significant progress in 2024. Through innovative solutions and evidence-based practices, the team successfully integrated infection control measures into daily operations across all health centers, ensuring the safety of patients, staff, and visitors.

The team recommended strengthening health protection measures through advanced hand hygiene initiatives, utilization of digital tools for infection surveillance, and enhanced antimicrobial resistance management programs. These efforts established new benchmarks for excellence in healthcare safety, reinforcing PHCC’s commitment to maintaining the highest health protection standards and ensuring a healthier, safer future for all.

Wellness Programs

Dr. Al-Mudhahka praised the outstanding achievements of Wellness Programs in 2024, which played a crucial role in promoting preventive health and empowering individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles.

The program aimed to improve quality of life by expanding clinical and community services. Key milestones included the expansion of smoking cessation clinics to 17 health centers, the launch of the “TASMU” Smoking Cessation App, the introduction of lifestyle clinics and group fitness sessions, and the endorsement of a postnatal maternal care program to support new mothers.

On the community level, the Healthy Schools Program expanded to 40 schools, a Healthy Living Hub was launched in universities, and women’s and elderly health programs were further strengthened.

Towards a Sustainable Healthcare Future

Dr. Al-Mudhahka affirmed that these initiatives reflect PHCC’s commitment to developing comprehensive health programs that enhance quality of life and create a lasting impact on public health.

He emphasized that PHCC remains dedicated to innovation, collaboration, and excellence in delivering integrated healthcare services for all community members. This commitment is evident through strengthening partnerships, advancing preventive programs, and investing in technology and research.

“These efforts solidify PHCC’s leadership in improving public health, building a thriving and sustainable healthy society,” he concluded.