Hamad Medical Corporation's (HMC) has relocated its Oncology and Lymphedema Outpatient Physiotherapy Department from the National Center Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR) to Qatar Rehabilitation Institute (QRI).
Being a subspeciality clinic- in 2024- the department received an average of 838 referrals and provided around 8,723 patient follow up sessions.
The relocation introduces separate, dedicated therapy areas for male and female patients, ensuring privacy and accessibility for all where a team of cancer rehabilitation specialists and certified lymphedema therapists provide comprehensive care, including cancer rehabilitation, palliative support, and lymphedema management. These experts work closely with patients to enhance their independence and overall quality of life through tailored therapy programmes.
QRI’s state-of-the-art facilities, combined with the enhanced expertise of the Oncology and Lymphedema Outpatient Physiotherapy Department, enables a full continuum of care for oncology and lymphedema patients, from diagnosis through to recovery. The clinic hours run from 7am to 9pm.
The Oncology and Lymphedema Outpatient Physiotherapy Department operates with a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach, working with Oncology/Hematology, Palliative Care, Breast, Head and Neck, and Bone Marrow Transplant MDTs, as well as Vascular, Plastic Surgery, and other specialised teams within HMC. This holistic approach is vital in helping patients regain essential motor functions, prevent long-term disabilities, and achieve improved health outcomes.
Dr Hanadi al-Hamad, deputy chief for Long-Term Care, Rehabilitation and Geriatric Care, and lead for Corporate Rehabilitation Therapy Services, stated: “Integrating the Oncology and Lymphedema Outpatient Physiotherapy Department into QRI allows us to offer a more seamless, comprehensive approach to holistic rehabilitation. This move not only optimises our resources but also strengthens our ability to provide personalised, patient-centred care.”
Mohamed Shafi, head of the Oncology and Lymphedema Physiotherapy Department, said: “The relocation is considered instrumental in advancing patient care, ensuring our patients receive exceptional support throughout their rehabilitation journey. This move and expansion is a pivotal advancement in oncology and lymphedema care in Qatar.”
The relocation to QRI and expansion of services at the Medical Care & Research Center represent a significant milestone in enhancing oncology and lymphedema care in Qatar. By increasing the number of treatment rooms, this initiative aims to reduce waiting time for appointment, ensuring quicker access to cancer rehabilitation and lymphedema management services.
Dr Hanadi al-Hamad
