Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) honoured staff of its Audiology and Balance Unit and Ophthalmology Department for becoming the first set of graduates in specialised diploma programmes in optometry and
audiology.
The graduation ceremony was attended by Mohamed Mubarak al-Noimi, chief of communications, who presented certificates to the graduates, including nine graduates in Clinical Audiology Diploma programme and 11 in Auditory Verbal Diploma
programme.
Dr Khalid Abdul Hadi, head of Audiology and Balance Unit and director of the programme, said: “Qatar is a leading country in this field, as these specialties, in addition to Dizziness Rehabilitation Diploma Programme, are very rare in the Middle East and the Gulf region. The programmes are aimed at screening, early detection and early treatment of auditory disorders to prevent listening disability.”
The audiology diploma programme is a partnership between HMC and the University of Toronto, and in line with HMC’s continuing education drive aimed at providing the highest level of knowledge and clinical skills in various specialties.
“The Clinical Audiology Diploma Programme started in 2009 with one-year academic calendar. The programme is the equivalent to a master’s degree in the same specialty, in terms of curriculum and topics learned. The Auditory Verbal Diploma programme was first conducted in 2014 with the aim of enhancing treatment and rehabilitation of children with hearing difficulties or those with cochlear implants through speech therapy,” he said.
Dr Nabila al-Tamimi, consultant optometrist at HMC and head of optometry section, said: “HMC has made a quantum leap in healthcare services through a number of educational programs conducted during the past few years.” She noted that the Optometry Diploma Programme, launched in 2011, aims to develop qualified assistant optometrists as the program provides theoretical and practical knowledge in
addition to intensive training.