Qatar Cancer Society Unveils Region's First Digital Platform for Treatment Support

QCS Chairman Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Jabr Al Thani

The Qatar Cancer Society (QCS) officially launched a pioneering digital platform, 'Wayyakum,' to support cancer patients in the region. This platform allows patients and their families to apply online for cancer treatment support, with approval expected within just two hours.

The launch event at QCS headquarters was attended by QCS Chairman Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Jabr Al Thani, Dr. Al Hareth Al Khater, Deputy Medical Director of Clinical Affairs at the National Centre for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR), and several senior officials from charitable organizations and the 'Sanady' Regulatory Authority for Charitable Activities. Speaking at the event, Sheikh Dr. Khalid explained that Wayyakum aims to provide timely and comprehensive assistance to cancer patients.

"We wanted to create a straightforward platform where users can upload all necessary information electronically, eliminating the need for paper documents. Our goal is to review the documents and make decisions within two hours, with everything processed electronically. Once approved, an auto-generated approval letter is sent to the respective center, either the National Centre for Cancer Care and Research or Sidra Medicine," said Sheikh Dr. Khalid.

He also mentioned that Wayyakum is integrated with the 'Sanady' platform, which coordinates financial assistance efforts across Qatar with 23 partners from government and non-government institutions.

Funds will be allocated based on the patient's needs and the estimated cost provided by the healthcare provider. An initial amount of QR 50,000 will be allocated per patient, but some may require 3-4 treatments over 2-3 years.

The Cancer Patients Treatment Support Committee at QCS, which includes cancer patient support specialists, a social worker, the head of the cancer patients treatment support department, the head of finance, and the director of program management, reviews and decides on applications. Final approval is given by the General Manager.

From 2013 to 2023, the Qatar Cancer Society covered the treatment costs for approximately 9,362 patients. In 2023 alone, QCS supported 1,200 patients, including both new and returning individuals.

Wayyakum can be accessed through the QCS website and mobile app.

 

Source: The Peninsula Qatar