Doha, July 21 (QNA) - Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has revealed that the partnership agreement it recently signed with four leading private hospitals to refer Qatari patients with long waiting times at HMC facilities includes all medical specialties and procedures, with HMC covering the full cost of treatment.

In a statement to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Nasser Al Naimi, Chief of Patient Experience at HMC and Director of the Hamad Healthcare Quality Institute, said the agreement aims to ensure timely access to high-quality healthcare for Qatari patients.

He stressed that the referral program encompasses all specialties and medical procedures. Each referral is individually assessed to ensure that the private hospital has the necessary expertise and facilities, guaranteeing optimal care for the patient.

Al Naimi explained that the referrals include all services related to the patient’s case, such as surgical procedures (if required), laboratory tests, radiology, physiotherapy, and other treatments, in accordance with the patient’s diagnosis and treatment plan.

Earlier this month, HMC signed a partnership agreement with four top private hospitals in Qatar: Al Ahli Hospital, Al Emadi Hospital, Aman Hospital, and Doha Clinic Hospital. The agreement is designed to improve access to healthcare services for Qatari citizens, reduce wait times, and enhance the overall patient experience.

Under this agreement, Qatari patients facing long waiting periods at HMC clinics and departments will be referred to these private hospitals for expedited appointments and care.

Al Naimi noted that the program targets all Qatari patients with prolonged wait times, with priority given to those waiting over two weeks for an appointment or more than a month to see a doctor.

He emphasized that referred patients will not bear any costs, as HMC fully covers all treatment expenses associated with the referral. The referral process is closely monitored to ensure equitable distribution of patients and the efficient use of healthcare resources.

Referrals are facilitated through a secure electronic platform, ensuring confidentiality and seamless data exchange with the private hospitals. Eligible patients are contacted to obtain their consent before the referral is initiated. Once consent is given, the referral is transmitted securely via the platform.

Additionally, selected physicians at the participating private hospitals have been granted limited, secure access to patients’ medical files at HMC to support continuity of care. Patients may also request their medical reports from HMC when needed to assist in treatment decisions at the referral facility.

Al Naimi highlighted that this referral initiative initially began with The View Hospital and has now expanded to include five private hospitals. This reflects a strategic shift toward leveraging the private healthcare sector’s capabilities in the interest of improving patient care.

He concluded by noting that the success of this initiative is being measured through key performance indicators such as reduced waiting times, patient satisfaction with the referral process, and continuity of care. Al Naimi expressed confidence that the program will significantly enhance the treatment experience for Qatari citizens. (QNA)