The Indian Medical Association and Indian Doctors Club Qatar recently hosted a joint monthly session.Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) gastroenterology specialist Dr Manik Sharma delivered the keynote address on patho-physiology and management of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). The speaker deliberated elaborately on the effect of GERD on the life style, maintenance of treatment, tackling relapse and non compliance to medications. The specialist also highlighted surgical interventions’ established methods and recent innovative techniques.Prominent ENT consultant and an IMA Qatar founder Dr Mohan Thomas provided an insight into the clinical practice in the country. Recounting his experiences, the speaker discussed important laws to abide during practice, quoting from interesting real life clinical scenarios.Cleanliness, waiting room facilities, adherence to local laws and customs and a board displaying treatment fees were emphasised. The do’s and don’ts mentioned were of importance to the doctors or clinics in Qatar. IMA Qatar president Dr Krishna Kumar welcomed the gathering. He introduced the new members to the IMA such as HealthSpring Well Care clinic, Focus Medical Centre Premium Care Clinic and Al Safa Polyclinic .He also awarded the CME certificates to the speakers.A medical quiz was conducted by HMC internal medical resident Dr Merlin Mary Thomas rounded off the event. The winners, Dr Sharma, Dr Syed Ibrahim and Dr Anil John, received gifts sponsored by Qatar Duty Free.The next meeting is on November 25. Dr Krishnakumar said doctors wishing to join the IMA may check the procedure online at
www.imaqatar.org.