The Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) continues to enhance its healthcare services with a dual focus on the elderly and younger generations in Qatar, reflecting its commitment to holistic, community-centered care.
Integrated Care for Older People at Leabaib Health Center
PHCC recently launched the Integrated Care for Older People (ICOPE) services at Leabaib Health Center, making it the third center to offer this specialized care, following the success at Al Wajbah and Rawdat Al Khail Health Centers. The ICOPE program, developed by the World Health Organization (WHO), is aimed at identifying early declines in the health and well-being of individuals aged 60 and above, allowing for timely interventions to slow down or prevent frailty and functional decline.
Through this initiative, PHCC is working towards enhancing healthy aging by maintaining and improving the functional abilities of older adults, empowering them to live independently for as long as possible. The clinic operates with a multidisciplinary, person-centered approach, assessing various factors such as vision, hearing, cognitive function, nutrition, and mobility. Initially, services will be available to registered patients at Leabaib Health Center, with plans to expand access soon.
Oral Health Program Benefits Over 60,000 Students
Simultaneously, PHCC’s Oral Health Promotion and Prevention Department reached over 60,000 students in the last academic year through the Asnani School Oral Health Programme. This initiative, focused on improving oral health among kindergarten and primary school students, saw participation from 140 schools, offering preventive treatments such as fluoride varnish to combat tooth decay.
The program’s efforts underscore the importance of oral health education and screening from an early age, as the report revealed a 70% prevalence of tooth decay in kindergarten students and 36% in primary school students. With dedicated oral health rooms and clinics across designated health centers, PHCC aims to foster lifelong oral health habits among the younger population.
By addressing both ends of the age spectrum, PHCC demonstrates its commitment to providing comprehensive healthcare services to all members of the community, from promoting healthy aging to preventing childhood health issues.
