HMC provides cutting-edge treatment options for cancer patients

Hamad Medical Corp (HMC) is leading the way in providing a range of evidence-based care for patients with cancer.

Through its state-of-the-art facilities, the most advanced technology, and highly-skilled staff, HMC provides cancer patients with a broad spectrum of services, ranging from screening and diagnosis, treatment, public awareness, reconstructive surgery, pain management, and supportive and palliative care.HMC also offers patients with cancer treatment options that incorporate the latest technology in the field of minimally invasive procedures.

Dr al-KhaterThis technology includes Magnetic Resonance Image Guided Adaptive Brachytherapy, an advanced technique used to treat cervical cancer; MR-Guided Focused Ultrasound for the treatment of cancer that has spread to the bones; Robotic Radiosurgery System (CyberKnife), a robotic system that delivers pain-free, non-surgical high-dose radiation therapy with extreme precision and blood stem cell transplantations via the Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Unit which can be an important part of treatment for some cancers.In addition to clinical treatment, patients with cancer also benefit from a range of support services, including palliative care, a service that helps patients cope with the symptoms and effects of their disease as well as a Psycho-Oncology and Quality of Life Clinic to help patients and their families cope with their diagnosis and treatment.Additionally, in collaboration with the paediatric oncology team, HMC operates a special Quality of Life Clinic for adolescent and young adult patients with cancer.HMC also provides genetic education and counselling, helping patients develop a risk assessment if they have a personal or family history of cancer.Dr al-Hareth M al-Khater, deputy medical director at the National Center for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR) said: "HMC has made great progress in the fight against cancer in Qatar; the National Cancer Strategy (2011-2016) established the foundations to reduce the impact of this overwhelming disease."Today, HMC’s cancer services are benchmarked against best international practices and are recognised by international research study groups.’’ Raghda Yousuf, an HMC employee treated for cancer at NCCCR, said: “In 2016, I was diagnosed with stage four metastatic cancer which had spread to all parts of my body (spine, brain, breast and lymph nodes).In addition to HMC’s easy and rapid referral system and the competence and friendliness of the staff, the facilities and the equipment were impressive, the diagnosis and treatment were exceptional, and the follow-up care remarkably efficient.’’ “ For a disease that affects so many people, it is reassuring to know that our patients are satisfied and have confidence in the care and the support we provide. As an organisation, we are dedicated to the provision of a cancer care service that is accountable, responsive, and reliable; above all, a service that provides our patients with the best possible care,” Dr al-Khater concluded.