Hamad Medical Corporation’s (HMC) two divisions collaborated to deliver a tailored education and training program on mental health awareness and screening for healthcare professionals in Qatar.

The accredited one-day training program was developed by the Mental Health Services (MHS) team with the support of Hamad International Training Center (HITC).

The course is targeted to all health care professionals and is designed to provide them with a solid understanding of common mental health disorders and how to screen for them.

Two of Hamad Medical Corporation's (HMC) divisions have collaborated to deliver a tailored education and training program on mental health awareness and screening for healthcare professionals in Qatar. #QNA pic.twitter.com/F2oVj5xq8d

— Qatar News Agency (@QNAEnglish) November 28, 2020

Dr. Khalid Abdulnoor Saifeldeen, Director, Hamad International Training Centre (HITC) Senior Consultant in Emergency Medicine said that while the commitment to develop mental health expertise among healthcare professionals has been around for some time, the COVID-19 pandemic helped to galvanize the delivery of this program.

“The importance of mental health as part of holistic care has been evident more so this year as the COVID-19 pandemic has created a sense of urgency to support skills development, as well as support the wellbeing of those working in health care settings. Enhancing professional skills and capabilities among public and private sector staff will have a positive impact on staff and on patient outcomes across Qatar,” added Dr. Saifeldeen.

200 Emergency Medicine staff completed the course earlier this month as part of their wide-ranging staff skills enhancement efforts. The goal is to train approximately 1500 EMS personnel by mid-2021.

Experienced mental health professionals deliver the training online. Up to 45 participants can join each session to ensure sufficient opportunity for constructive dialogue.

The course has been approved to offer five Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Hours accredited by Qatar Council for Healthcare Practitioners (QCHP).

The Mental Health Helpline is accessible via the toll-free number 16000 between Saturday to Thursday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

The helpline is staffed by a team of mental health professionals who can speak several languages.

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Source: HMC  Qatar