One year after their launch, the Al Wakra satellite office for community-based healthcare service of Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) are continuing to provide care for thousands of patients in Qatar.

In recent years, activity at HMC general hospitals has continued to increase, underscoring the demand for community-based care options. Demand for Al Wakra Hospital’s outpatient services rose by 25% from 2016 to 2017. The Seating and Mobility Service, which is part of the Occupational Therapy Service, and the Home Healthcare Service (HHCS) are evidence of HMC’s commitment to meeting that demand.

According to Dr Essa Al Sulaiti, Medical Director of HHCS, the Al Wakra satellite office has brought care closer to the community, meeting the increased demand for a home care service in the Al Wakra area.

More than 330 patients residing in communities south of Doha are currently cared for by staff at HHCS Al Wakra office. The HHCS provides care for children and adults who are temporarily or permanently housebound. The multi-disciplinary care approach includes home visits by doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals who perform a variety of procedures, including oxygen administration, catheter changes, and a number of specialised therapies and services.

According to Dr Al Sulaiti, the HHCS is also working closely with the Emergency Department as part of an effort to provide fast track access to patients who require specialist consultations, minor procedures, and device replacements.

The Seating and Mobility Service, which was relocated from Rumailah Hospital to Al Wakra last year, is staffed by an experienced team of therapists who provide and train individuals across the country in the use of appropriate equipment to facilitate mobility, prevent complications such as pain and pressure sores, and enhance psychological and social well-being. Last year, around 2,200 patients with disabilities who required seating and mobility assistance were treated by staff from the Al Wakra Hospital-based seating and mobility service.

Majority of patients received a custom-built power-chair, wheelchair, scooter, or customised vehicle, enabling them to move about more freely and independently. Sultan Al Abdullah, HMC Chief of Occupational Therapy said they focus on preventing injury and maximising ‘ability’. They work with outpatients and inpatients to help increase independence and ultimately improve the overall quality of their lives.

For more information about HMC and their community-based healthcare service in Al Wakra, visit hamad.qa