HMC Is Honored With An Award By The Arab Hospitals Federation

HMC honored by Arab Hospitals Federation

In a ceremony held by the Arab Hospitals Federation in Abu Dhabi on September 25th, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) was presented with the Gold Initiative Certificate for its Digital Transformation efforts within the category of Innovations in Telehealth. This recognition was awarded in honor of the significant impact made by the National Mental Health Helpline, an initiative operated by HMC's Mental Health Service, which has played a pivotal role in enhancing access to care both during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Representing HMC at the awards ceremony were Mohamad Mubarak Al Noimi, Director of the Office of the Minister of Public Health; Ali Al Khater, Communications Adviser to the Minister of Public Health and Chair of the Supreme Committee for Healthcare Communications; and Saad Al Dosari, Assistant Executive Director of Corporate Communications at HMC.

The National Mental Health Helpline (NMHH) is a specialized mental health service offered by HMC that provides over 1200 calls per month, offering virtual consultations through both phone and video. 

Dr. Majid Abdulla, Chairman of Psychiatry and Medical Director of the Mental Health Service at HMC, explained, “Before the helpline's launch, there was no comparable service available in the country, providing easy and confidential access for individuals seeking mental health assessment and support with a rapid response. It was introduced in April 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and has since become a vital gateway to mental health support for Qatar's population.”

Dr. Abdulla further highlighted the significance of this helpline, stating, “Efficient access to triage and assessment services is crucial for early identification of mental health issues and the timely delivery of appropriate interventions. This helpline plays an indispensable role in preventing avoidable relapses, responding promptly when signs of relapse are detected, and assisting individuals in navigating the healthcare system.”

The Arab Hospitals Federation dedicated this award to recognize healthcare sector leaders and institutions committed to implementing innovation and technology, strengthening investments, improving patient outcomes, enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, expanding access to care, advancing research, and leading the healthcare sector toward digital transformation.

Hassan Al Hail, HMC’s Chief Communications Officer, expressed his appreciation for the role of digital health transformation in making hospitals more patient-centered, efficient, and cost-effective, while also enhancing the quality of care. He added, “We are deeply honored to receive this prestigious award from the Arab Hospitals Federation. I extend my congratulations to all those in HMC’s Mental Health Service for their outstanding efforts in establishing the helpline and improving access to care for individuals in Qatar experiencing stress, anxiety, and other psychological distress.”

Based on anonymous user feedback collected over the past few years, reports indicate an 81% satisfaction rate with the service, with 90% of users finding the staff courteous, 79% reporting that the service was responsive to their needs, 83% expressing their intention to use the service again, and 83% stating that they would recommend the service to their family or friends.