Qatar: Qatar's Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), in collaboration with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and supported by the Ministry of Public Health, has announced the opening of a new Specialized Support Clinic at the Al Sadd Health Center. This initiative aims to improve access to integrated mental health services specifically for adults with autism spectrum disorder and learning difficulties.

According to Qatar News Agency, the clinic has commenced its first phase of operations, offering three weekly specialist clinics. These clinics provide structured psychological support tailored to the needs of adults facing autism and learning difficulties. Dr. Salma Al Kaabi, Adviser to the Minister of Public Health and National Lead for Qatar's National Autism Plan, highlighted that this development underscores the ministry's dedication to creating integrated and accessible care models through effective collaboration across the healthcare sector.

Dr. Samya Al Abdulla, PHCC's Assistant Managing Director for Operations and Clinical Affairs, emphasized that the clinic represents the corporation's ongoing commitment to expanding community-based, person-centered mental health services. She pointed out that the partnership with HMC facilitates specialist care being delivered nearer to patients' homes, ensuring seamless coordination and continuity of care.

Dr. Majid Al Abdullah, Chairman of Psychiatry at HMC, noted that the new service not only brings psychological support closer to patients and their families but also simplifies the process for adults to access necessary care. He remarked that this initiative is a testament to a shared commitment to providing high-quality, specialized support within a community environment.