PHCC, HMC launch specialized mental health support clinic at Al Sadd Health Center

Qatar's Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), in collaboration with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and supported by the Ministry of Public Health, has launched a new Specialized Support Clinic at Al Sadd Health Center to enhance access to integrated mental health services across the country.

The clinic has officially begun its first phase of operations and will provide structured psychological support through three specialist clinics each week. The service is specifically designed to support adults living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and learning difficulties, helping improve access to specialized care within the community.

Expanding Access to Integrated Mental Health Services

The new initiative reflects Qatar's ongoing efforts to strengthen mental health services and create more accessible care pathways for individuals with developmental and psychological support needs.

Key features of the clinic include:

• Three weekly specialist mental health clinics
 • Psychological support for adults with autism spectrum disorder
 • Services for individuals with learning difficulties
 • Community-based and integrated care approach
 • Improved continuity of care and specialist support

Supporting Qatar's National Autism Plan

Dr. Salma Al Kaabi, Adviser to the Minister of Public Health and National Lead for Qatar's National Autism Plan, said the clinic represents an important step in developing integrated healthcare services through strong collaboration across the healthcare sector.

She highlighted that the initiative aligns with Qatar's strategic vision to provide accessible and coordinated care for individuals with autism and their families. The clinic aims to ensure continuous support throughout different stages of life while improving overall quality of care.

Bringing Specialist Care Closer to Patients

Dr. Samya Al Abdulla, Assistant Managing Director for Operations and Clinical Affairs at PHCC, emphasized that the clinic demonstrates PHCC's commitment to expanding person-centered mental health services within local communities.

She noted that the partnership with HMC enables specialist services to be delivered closer to where patients live, reducing barriers to care while ensuring smooth coordination between healthcare providers.

Benefits of the new model include:

• Easier access to specialist mental health services
 • Community-based treatment and support
 • Better coordination between healthcare providers
 • Enhanced patient and family experience
 • Seamless continuity of care

Improving Support for Adults and Families

Dr. Majid Al Abdullah, Chairman of Psychiatry at HMC, said the new clinic will make it easier for adults with autism and learning difficulties to receive the psychological support they need without travelling to larger specialist facilities.

He added that the initiative reflects the shared commitment of PHCC, HMC, and the Ministry of Public Health to delivering high-quality, specialized mental health services within a supportive community setting.

Strengthening Qatar's Mental Health Services

The launch of the Specialized Support Clinic at Al Sadd Health Center marks another milestone in Qatar's efforts to expand mental health care and improve support services for individuals with autism and learning difficulties. Through collaboration between key healthcare institutions, the initiative aims to provide accessible, person-centered care while enhancing the wellbeing of patients and their families across the country.